MARI N M A G A Z I N E
NOVEMBER 2010
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Maria Sharapova and her Formula 1 Steel & Ceramic Watch with Diamonds
CONTENTS
56 62
70
Features 50 community Dominican’s Big Debate Gubernatorial candidates make their cases in Marin.
DOODLE PHOTO: TIM PORTER; JOURNEY PHOTO: DAVE BARTRUFF
story jacoba charles photos tim porter
56 life Oodles of Doodles
Marin—where hybrid cars abound—embraces the hybrid dog. story mandy behbehani photos tim porter
62 journey Call of the Crimea
Three storied ports on the Black Sea Riviera. story and photos dave bartruff
Marin (USPS 024-898) is published monthly by Marin Magazine, LLC, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965. Periodicals Postage Paid at Sausalito, CA and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Marin, One Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965.
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
7
CONTENTS
114
Departments 20 letters
Readers respond to Marin Magazine.
24 travel buzz
Sojourn news, tidbits and deals. by mimi towle
26 appellation
Wine country special events and tasty treats. by mimi towle
28 currents
House of Air and super new snacks. by somer flaherty
30 home decor
Perfect holiday hostess gifts. by somer flaherty
32 fashion trends
Watches that have form and function. by somer flaherty
Filmmaker and entrepreneur Tiffany Shlain. by mimi towle
36 fyi
Food: Tipping pointers. by somer flaherty and mimi towle Community: Giving locally. by christine bronstein
8
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
PH OTOS: TIM PO RTE R
34
34 marinterview
A magical Encounter between Human and Horse
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CONTENTS
46
Departments 44 first person
Anahata and my garden. by patricia v. davis
46 conversation
Kathleen Jackson makes a difference at San Quentin. by jim wood
68 go
Winter family beach escapes. by mimi towle
78 calendar
A roundup of what to do in Marin and beyond.
103
90 snapshots
46
96 flavor
Out and about in Marin and San Francisco.
Tyler Florence and Thanksgiving cooking. by mimi towle
98 dine out
An insider’s guide to Bay Area eateries.
114 microclimate
Get to know Tamalpais Valley. by daniel jewett
138 looking back
Columns The Cover
18 view from mount tam
The founders of Marin Magazine welcome you to share their vision.
Swede’s Beach by Marin photographer Tim Porter. To see more of his work visit timporter.com, and to purchase a print of the cover, go to marinmagazine.com/coverart. 10
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
22 pov
It’s election time again. by jim wood
CONVERS ATION PH OTO : TIM P ORTER
The tale of Pantoll. by jim wood
ANTHROPOLOGIE BANANA REPUBLIC GYMBOREE J. JILL KATE SPADE POTTERY BARN RESTORATION HARDWARE SUNDANCE
Cocktail Dress. Teddy Bear. Date Night. Some things are just essential.
MACY’S, NORDSTROM, AND MORE THAN 60 SPECIALTY STORES AND RESTAURANTS. LOCATED ON HIGHWAY 101 AT PARADISE DRIVE IN CORTE MADERA. 415.924.8557 | WWW.VILLAGEATCORTEMADERA.COM | TWITTER.COM/SHOPCORTEMADERA
EDITORIAL EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Over 80 years of experience in every taste Hand crafted in small batches Ultra Premium – Ultra Smooth
Nikki Wood
ext 105 | nwood@marinmagazine.com EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Jim Wood
ext 106 | jwood@marinmagazine.com SENIOR EDITOR
Mimi Towle
ext 101 | mtowle@marinmagazine.com
Tim Porter
EDITOR-AT-LARGE
tporter@marinmagazine.com DEPARTMENTS EDITOR
Somer Flaherty
ext 103 | sflaherty@marinmagazine.com ASSOCIATE EDITOR
Daniel Jewett
ext 116 | djewett@marinmagazine.com COPY EDITOR/PROOFREADER
Cynthia Rubin
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Dave Bartruff, Mandy Behbehani, P. J. Bremier, Jacoba Charles, Patricia V. Davis EDITORIAL INTERN
Elle Link ART ART DIRECTOR
Anne Walzer
PRODUCTION MANAGER
Alex French
ext 111 | production@marinmagazine.com CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Drew Altizer, Barbara Ries, Nike van der Molen A D M I N I S T R AT I O N CONTROLLER
Maeve Walsh
ext 104 | mwalsh@marinmagazine.com OFFICE MANAGER
Danielle Grant
ext 100 | dgrant@marinmagazine.com
WEB
Magave Brands™ Award Winning Tequilas
WEB EDITOR
94 pts.
Look for us at: Mill Valley Market, Mollie Stone’s, Piazza D’Angelo, Balboa Café…and other locations. www.magavetequila.com
12
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
Daniel Jewett
ext 116 | djewett@marinmagazine.com Volume 6, Issue 11. Marin Magazine is published in Marin County by Marin Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. Copyright©2010. Reproduction of Marin Magazine content is prohibited without the expressed, written consent of Marin Magazine LLC. Unsolicited materials cannot be returned. Marin Magazine reserves the right to refuse to publish any advertisement deemed detrimental to the best interests of the community or that is in questionable taste. Marin Magazine is mailed monthly to homes and businesses in Marin County. Subscription rates are $12 per year. Marin Magazine, One Harbor Drive, Sausalito, CA 94965. Phone 415.332.4800, fax 415.332.3048, e-mail editorial@ marinmagazine.com, website marinmagazine.com.
INVESTOR INTELLIGENCE SERIES: 2 OF 3
Planning is power. A TRULY COMPREHENSIVE FINANCIAL PLAN IS A RARE AND BEAUTIFUL THING. What exactly is financial planning, anyway? The term has been used in so many different ways that it’s basically lost its meaning. But the practice of in-depth, personal financial planning—as rare as it may have become—is a game-changer. Financial planning is not a commodity. It’s a specialty. In its pure form, it allows you to maximize the potential of your assets and live life on your own personal terms. The experience should be creative, liberating and empowering. To help shed a light on this topic, we’ve prepared an “executive brief” on financial planning. It defines what genuine financial planning entails, what you should expect from the process, and how you should feel once your investments are hard at work in support of your personal vision. You’ll find it at www.privateocean.com/power
Sarah Wotherspoon, MS, CFP®, is an advisor at Private Ocean and chair of the financial planning committee.
AN ELITE WEALTH MANAGEMENT TEAM LOCATED RIGHT HERE IN MARIN
ADVERTISING PUBLISHER
Lisa Shanower
ext 107 | lshanower@marinmagazine.com ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Michele Geoffrion Johnson ext 110 | mjohnson@marinmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER
Leah Bronson
ext 109 | lbronson@marinmagazine.com ACCOUNT MANAGER
Stephanie Ericson
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ext 120 | ldinga@marinmagazine.com ADVERTISING ART DIRECTOR
Alex French
ext 111 | production@marinmagazine.com
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Shop online for exclusive gift packs from Duckhorn Wine Company. Choose from our award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir and Zinfandel blends–many available only from the winery. Wine tasting experiences make great gifts. Choose from our selection of tasting passes and educational experiences offered at our Napa and Anderson Valley estates, or call us to arrange a visit. Order by 11/19/2010 and shipping fees will be included in the pricing.
CONTACT: CATALOG DIRECTOR
Lora Dinga
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MARIN CUSTOM MEDIA CONTACT: PUBLISHER
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MARIN MAGAZINE ONE HARBOR DR, STE 208, SAUSALITO, CA 94965 PH 415.332.4800 FAX 415.332.3048 MARINMAGAZINE.COM ADVERTISING@MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
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INSPIRED BY WHERE WE LIVE
V I E W F R O M M O U N T TA M
DEADLINES ARE WONDERFUL. They compel procrastina-
Brown and Meg Whitman, which was happening that night
tors to be productive, force creative types with attention
at Dominican University in San Rafael.
deficits to focus and, above all, reward those who honor them and punish those who don’t.
Those blank pages had to be filled by noon the next day, when the magazine would be shipped to the printer. We
Deadlines are also relentless. Regardless of how much
wanted a package that included an interview with debate
lead time there is, they always arrive. Producers of 24-hour
moderator Tom Brokaw, a behind-the-scenes story about
news shows may envy the comparatively leisurely publish-
how a small college found itself on such a big political
ing cycle of monthly magazines, whose writers in turn may
stage, and some memorable images of the evening. You’ll
turn a covetous eye toward the seemingly languid pace of
find all those things (and more) beginning on Page 50. The
book authors. Eventually, though, whether after a day, a
team of people, working on a deadline that truly couldn’t
month or a year, it’s time to publish or, perish the thought,
be missed, included most of the editorial department and
miss the deadline, a transgression that can cost writers their
West Marin contributor Jacoba Charles, photographer Tim
reputations and publishers their pocketbooks.
Porter, and Art Director Anne Walzer.
This month, though, we deliberately ignored our usual
As always, our wish is for your good reading. Enjoy
deadlines so we could provide something normally lacking
Marin Magazine, as we continue to celebrate this
in a monthly magazine—last-minute news coverage. On
extraordinary place!
October 12, the whole issue was wrapped and ready to go,
18
MARIN
with one glaring exception: six blank pages in the middle of
Lisa Shanower, Publisher
the book, space we had reserved to report on this election
Nikki Wood, Editorial Director
season’s final California gubernatorial debate between Jerry
Jim Wood, Executive Editor
NOVEMBER 2010
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
L E TTE R S
Fabulous Vintage Diamond Jewels Readers respond
only immense caring and immense pain that one prays will heal in time. Christine and Don Scioli, Novato
❯❯ Smart Meterspeak Regarding October’s POV, “Smart Meters
❯❯ The Wheel Deal
Matter”: I’m not very concerned about the ac-
Regarding the October issue's “The Wheel
curacy of the meters, or the possibility that they
Deal”: The hard work of many people is final-
could be hacked, or even the health issue. What
ly paying off in better and safer routes for bi-
does concern me is that with this technology
cycle and pedestrian commuters. I can't wait
PG&E will be able to monitor energy usage con-
for the CalPark Tunnel to open. Our bike ad-
tinuously, which could lead to demand pricing,
ventures in San Francisco via the ferry will be
that is, charging not only for how much ener-
even more frequent. A big challenge is how
gy is used, but also when it is used. I can easily
to facilitate bike access across the Richmond–
see PG&E adopting this practice in an effort to
San Rafael bridge. My wife and I work in
force behavior modification to save energy, mini-
Berkeley and drive our bikes over the bridge
mize its investment in power plants, cut labor
in our van in order to pick up the fabulous
costs and, not incidentally, increase profits. This
Bay Trail connection from Point Richmond to
would upset me, and is sufficient reason for me
Berkeley. A car-free lifestyle is possible!
to oppose the whole Smart Meter idea.
Tim G., via marinmagazine.com
Ken Sablik, Novato
❯❯ Elvis Cop ❯❯ Victim's Dilemma
Your recent Marinterview (Bill Palmini, October)
September's POV, "A Victim’s Dilemma" was
made me smile. I love that the police officer was
right on point. While the Osheroffs have en-
bringing traffic safety to kids in a fun way and
dured a tragedy most of us can’t even fathom,
his costume looked great! I'm going to stop in at
due to absolutely no fault of their own, suing
Great Donuts in Novato and I hope to see him
cash-strapped Novato will only give them mon-
on those Saturdays after his basketball game to
ey, not restitution, and no peace of mind in the
shake his hand! Mark P., Novato
long run. We live on San Marin Drive, one block west of the accident scene. We actually heard
20
Schaefer speeding up San Marin Drive that eve-
❯❯ Salute to Strawberry
ning, as we have heard others do in the past.
Thanks for shining a light on the Strawberry
This time it resulted in the ultimate tragedy. We
area (Microclimates, October) in your recent is-
watched the quick and huge response of our
sue. Our town often gets overlooked but now
firefighters and police, as we have also watched
we have bragging rights—who knew it was al-
many times in the past. Then we watched this
most a location for the United Nations! Keep
magnificent community we live in rise to the oc-
those fun facts coming.
Buyers and Sellers
casion to help the Osheroffs, with fundraising
415-982-2213 323 Sutter Street San Francisco www.langantiques.com
events and unwavering support that still contin-
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
Harvey T., Strawberry
ues. The neighbors whose house sits at ground
Letters to the editor may be edited for clarity and
zero still tend the shrine to Melody nestled on
brevity. Send letters to Marin Magazine, One
their property. There was no negligence on the
Harbor Drive, Suite 208, Sausalito, CA 94965.
part of the city or its first responders. There was
Or e-mail jwood@marinmagazine.com.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
SieMatic S2. The latest from the inventors of the handle-free kitchen.
Each new SieMatic kitchen developed over the past five decades set a standard for design, function and perfection. The 50th anniversary of the SieMatic brand marks a new chapter in the history of the “handle-free kitchen.” Introducing the SieMatic S2. More at: www.siematic.com/s2
SieMatic San Francisco 235 First Street San Francisco CA 94105 www.siematic-sanfrancisco.com
Tel: 415.442.0255
POV
It's Election Time Again November 2 ballot has pivotal personalities and propositions BY JIM WOOD Benson. On the Marin Healthcare District Board,
Prop. 24, repeal business’s right to low-
let’s keep incumbents Jennifer Rienks, Jamie
er tax liability: Again, an appealing concept,
Clever and Larry Bedard. Likewise, with the
but far too complicated a matter to be decided
Marin Municipal Water District board, let’s stay
by voters. NO.
with Cynthia Koehler, David Behar, Jack Gibson and Armando Quintero.
Prop. 25, state budget approval: Would allow state budget approval by a simple majori-
On the state propositions, there are few
ty, not the existing two-thirds requirement. Long
clear-cut choices. “I’ve been doing this for over
overdue! Two-thirds majority will still be needed
20 years,” says Anne Layzer, who analyzes bal-
for tax increases. YES.
lot propositions for Marin’s League of Women
Prop. 26, expand supermajority in state
Voters, “and these are the most complicated
Legislature: Fairly clear-cut. Would expand, not
propositions I’ve ever seen.” I agree. With that
reduce, the two-thirds majority required for leg-
caveat, here are my recommendations.
islative action. NO.
Prop. 19, marijuana legalization: Allows
Prop. 27, state commission on redis-
possession of one ounce for those 21 and old-
tricting: The opposite of Prop. 20; instead of
er—but not in public nor while driving. Could
expanding the citizens' commission, would elim-
AS A CERTIFIED POLITICAL JUNKIE, here are my
lessen Mexico’s violence and, in time, result in
inate it and return redistricting to state legisla-
views on the crucial November 2nd election:
millions in state tax revenues. Not perfect, but
ture. NO.
For governor, considering the immense challenges, I say we’re fortunate to have two
headed in the right direction; prohibition hasn’t worked. YES.
Marin County measures Measure B vehicle license surcharge:
candidates as qualified as Jerry Brown and
Prop. 20, congressional redistricting:
Adds $10 to auto registration fees, generat-
Meg Whitman. The unions may back Brown,
2008’s Prop. 11 amended the state constitution
ing $2.3 million to fix Marin’s roads (35%),
experienced and vigorous at 72, but he
so a citizens' commission—not the Legislature—
bike trails (5%) and improve transit (35%)
knows when to say “No” to hold to a budget.
would realign state districts according to com-
and crossing guard programs (25%). Facing
Whitman, an accomplished Type A competi-
munity factors, not partisan politics. This
little opposition. YES.
tor, never does anything halfway. Even after
extends that mandate to include U.S. congres-
witnessing the Dominican debates, I’m going
sional districts. YES.
Measure S desalination plant: A public vote would determine if a desal plant would be
Prop. 21, vehicle license surcharge: Would
built in Marin as insurance against drought but
I like the Bay Area’s Gavin Newsom, Bill
tack $18 onto car registration fees to raise $500
only after the Marin Municipal Water District
Lockyer and Kamala Harris for lieutenant gover-
million for state parks. Marin has six such parks.
completes needs assessment, preliminary plan-
nor, state treasurer and attorney general, respec-
Opponents say a hands-off budget for parks is
ning and cost analysis. YES.
tively. For Congress, I’m staying with Barbara
wrong for these difficult times. YES.
down to the wire on this one.
Measure T desalination plant: A public
Boxer (barely!) and Lynn Woolsey—with the
Prop. 22, prohibit state from taking local
vote would determine if a desal plant would
proviso that this is it! California definitely needs
funds: An appealing concept, but far too com-
be built in Marin prior to the completion of
new ideas and energy in these two offices. As
plicated a matter to be decided by voters. NO.
needs assessment, preliminary planning and cost analysis. NO.
for the 11 judgeships, who knows? However,
Prop. 23, air pollution control: This would
none are being contested. And for state superin-
suspend (effectively cancel) AB 32, which calls
The above are my points of view. What are
tendent of schools, I like Tom Torlakson’s varied
for California’s greenhouse gas emissions to be
yours? Whatever they are, express them on (or
experience over Larry Aceves’s narrower focus.
at 1990 levels by 2020. Backed by Texas gas/
before) November 2. For voting poll information
For Marin County assessor/recorder, I similar-
oil interests; would hurt California’s green tech-
call 415.499.6456.
ly favor the administrative experience of Richard
22
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
nologies and businesses. Clearly a NO.
E-mail jwood@marinmagazine.com.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Leslie Murphy, W. Bradley Electric Private Banking Ask Leslie Murphy why she likes Bank of Marin. When Leslie asked if we could help take her business to the next level, plus handle her personal banking, we went beyond her expectations. Now she can concentrate on running one of the largest woman owned businesses in the North Bay, and still have time to cheer at her son’s lacrosse game. Together, Leslie and Bank of Marin are wired for success.
Committed to your business and our community
For more information call Carol York, Regional Manager, at (415) 899-7341. bankofmarin.com
Member FDIC
T RAV E L BUZZ
STARTING NEXT MONTH (December 16), United Airlines will fly nonstop from SFO to Mammoth Mountain.
Never lost? Traveling to the islands without a plan? Hertz Rent-a-Car has created a new interactive website to help you get the most from your vacation. The site includes info on the most popular attractions and a current list of events. Choose a pre-planned event or DIY.
neverlost.com/hawaii
Adventure travel meets social action WHEN EIGHT-YEAR-OLD MAX SAROSI SAW ANGKOR WAT ON THE COVER OF NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC it piqued his interest in ancient ruins.
Which inspired his mother, Lily Kanter, to make a plan: “Let’s talk Daddy into going to Cambodia so we can visit our sponsored child Sokhoun at the Cambodian Children’s Fund.” And they did. During the visit the family spent three days with Cambodian Children’s Fund participants in Phnom Penh and three days in Siem Reap visiting Angkor Wat, a 12th-century Hindu temple complex. “Max visited all the children and took Sokhoun out shopping and for pizza,” recalls Lily. “I sincerely believe the idea of adventure travel meets social action is the best way to travel the world with our children.” For more details about their trip, check out their story online at marinmagazine.com/travel and click on Travel with Purpose.
It CAN happen to you
H
elen Darken of Novato (born and raised in Mill Valley) was “tickled pink” to learn that she had won Marin Magazine’s Honua Kai Resort & Spa
Sweepstakes, last spring. The prize: five nights at the Maui resort in a spacious two-bedroom suite plus a Budget rental car and snorkeling adventure for four. It was her third time to Hawaii and she brought along her husband and two children. “I loved the Honua Kai,” she says. “The grounds are beautiful and pools are very inviting. The large lit torches really accentuate the tropical atmosphere. The rooms are very spacious and have everything a guest might need to make the stay comfortable comfortable. The kitchen was perfect and we used it for breakfast and lunch. The beach was breathtaking and easily accessible from the hotel. We found the staff to be very helpful and hospitable.” Her favorite memory, however, was “sitting on the balcony in the morning sipping coffee and looking out at the expanse of the ocean. It was so calming.”
24
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
IS P L EAS ED TO A NNO U NC E AT LARKSPUR LANDING
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A PPELLAT ION
Holiday Festivities in Paso Robles SET BETWEEN MARIN AND LOS ANGELES, Paso Robles is luring travel-
ers with a holiday season dedicated to music, food and wine. The events kick off November 13 and include appearances by Mrs. Claus, caroling and plenty of hot chocolate and cookies. Opt for dinner at one of the newest spots in Paso Robles, Il Cortile Ristorante where Chef Santos MacDonald serves up rustic Italian cuisine. During the day, tour the local vineyards and pick up wine for the oenophiles on your holiday list. Twenty years ago there were less than 20 wineries in the area and today, there are almost 10 times that number. Well-known wine critic Robert M. Parker, Jr., says the region shows “some of the most striking potential in all of California.” Taste at Linne Calodo, where owner and winemaker Matt Trevisan makes blends Parker says are some of the ar-
LABEL WORTHY Sure you could steam off a wine label and then paste a new one on, or write a message with a gold pen, but–believe us–it’s a lot harder than it looks. Swanson Vineyards has launched a collection of Oakville appellation wines with expressive labels perfect for any occasion. Well, as long as the event falls under Merci, With Love, Thrilled for You, Please Forgive Me, Lucky Night, Instant Bonvivant, Swell Swill, Just Married, Mazel Tov and our favorite, Expensive Christmas Wine, with a faux $150 price tag. swansonvineyards.com
ea’s “most compelling.” Stay in the intimate Hotel Cheval, where most of the 16 rooms have fireplaces and overlook a central European-style courtyard. Most evenings, a Belgian draft horse Chester takes guests from the hotel on a gratis carriage ride around the town square. 805.226.9995, hotelcheval.com
We Like iPads (and wine) CONN CREEK WINERY in St. Helena re-
cently earned a Wine Tourism Award for their innovative use of iPads in their tasting rooms. The electronic tablets allow visitors to post their own blends, comments and tasting notes to a virtual blending gallery on the Conn Creek website. “The addition of the iPads just builds on this experience and helps facilitate social interaction in the blending room and beyond,” says Sue Furdek, director of marketing for Conn Creek. conncreek.com
BIG SUR FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL Looking for an excuse to head down to Big Sur in November? Here’s one. The second annual Big Sur Food and Wine Festival, November 4 through 7. “We are delighted and still somewhat overwhelmed by the success of last year’s inaugural weekend,” says Toby Rowland-Jones, president of the festival. “Already we are fielding calls from as far away as Germany for ticket availability and are excited about what our guests and friends will experience.” Some of the winemakers to appear include Tim Mondavi of Continuum, Randall Grahm of Bonny Doon, Paul Draper of Ridge, Jim Clendenen of ABC, Rob Talbott and Dan Karlsen of Talbott Vineyards, Gary Pisoni, David Ramey, John Alban, Morgan Clendenen, Emmanuel Kimiji of Miura, are just a few. bigsurfoodandwine.org
26
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
CURREN CU NT TS
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Way r e t Bet
High t e to G
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New Way to Snack Sausalito-based Somersaults snack company is living up to its mindful munching credo. When health guru Dr. Mehmet Oz noted
CHEFS DE NOËL
B
the superfood power of sunflower seeds, general manager Heidi Otto says,
uy tickets early to secure a spot in The Twelve Days of Christmas
the news also boosted the overall
at Meadowood Napa Valley. The December event brings together
awareness of the snack brand. Otto
some of the top chefs from around the world with local vintners
says sunflower-seed-based and
to support the nonprofit Share Our Strength. Local Roland Passot of La Folie is teamed up with Silver Oak and Twomey Cellars on December 7 and Novato’s Michael Mina and Bond Estates wine will be paired on the
nugget-size snacks offer a boost of vitamin E, more antioxidants than blueberries and more protein than almonds. somersaultsnackco.com
eighth night of the event, while Meadowood’s own Christopher Kostow closes the series on December 18. 707.963.3646, meadowood.com
Supermarket Splash Mill Valley’s gluten-free Can Do Kid nutrition bars celebrated a fifth birthday with the introduction of its healthy snacks at Safeway. iamacandokid.com
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NOVEMBER 2010
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Meet the Designer Don’t miss a chance to meet fashion designer Prabal Gurung (see his work on page 66 of our September fashion feature) at Neiman Marcus for a special preview of his spring 2011 collection, November 4 and 5. 415.249.2711
Your Wealth is Well cared for...
CONGRATS! Between teaching music and drama at local schools the past 10 years and performing improv comedy, Blanca Florido is a maven of the Marin art scene, but she’s also adopted a new title, as Novato Theater Company’s artistic director. In that role, she manages new programs and funding as well as production of the season’s performances. With her extensive professional arts background, board president Brenda Weidner says, Florido will be a great asset toward helping achieve the company’s goals.
“
At Main Street, we invest our family's accounts
the same way we invest our client's wealth, forging a common bond and shared objectives based on enhancing wealth, actively managing risk and . . . some extremely careful thinking.
”
James E. Demmert, Managing Partner
Congrats also to Sarah Oliver (pictured at left), who was named Woman Entrepreneur of the Year in Mill Valley by the Bay Area nonprofit Women’s Initiative for Self-Employment.
MAIN STREET RESEARCH LLC
Wealth Management If you have investment assets of $1 million or more, we welcome the opportunity to meet with you for a no-cost wealth management review and analysis.
Oliver, who owns her own signature line
670 B R I D G E W A Y, S A U S A L I T O C A L I F O R N I A 94965
of handbags, works with the knitters of the
800.357.3863 | 415.289.1010 | W W W . M S - R E S E A R C H . C O M
Redwoods Senior Retirement Community in Mill Valley to produce her “wearable art.”
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PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT INDICATIVE OF FUTURE RESULTS. MAIN STREET CLIENT PORTFOLIOS ARE MANAGED SEPARATELY AND VARY IN REGARD TO RISK AND RETURN DEPENDENT UPON INDIVIDUAL CLIENT CIRCUMSTANCES. NEITHER THE INFORMATION NOR ANY OPINION EXPRESSED HEREIN CONSTITUTES A SOLICITATION BY MAIN STREET OF THE PURCHASE OR SALE OF ANY SECURITIES OR OTHER FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS NOR A RECOMMENDATION TO HOLD, SELL, BUY, OR OWN A PARTICULAR SECURITY OR SECTOR IN YOUR PORTFOLIO. INDIVIDUAL RECOMMENDATIONS ARE TAILORED TO INDIVIDUAL PORTFOLIOS. MAIN STREET RESEARCH LLC IS A REGISTERED INVESTMENT ADVISOR. THE INFORMATION PRESENTED DOES NOT REPRESENT STATEMENTS FROM ANY ACTUAL CLIENTS AND INDIVIDUAL EXPERIENCES MAY DIFFER. CERTIFIED FINANCIAL BOARD OF STANDARDS INC. OWNS THE CERTIFICATION MARKS CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ AND IN THE U.S.
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
29
HOM E DEC OR
BE THE PERFECT GUEST Delightful and affordable d ble luxuries make for memorable hostess gifts BY SOM ER FL AHH ERT Y
Steer clear of the traditional hostess gift. We’ve picked the ideal offerings that give a nod to eating, drinking and being merry! Ceramic Olive Oil Cruet by Francis Ford Coppola, $35 at The Marin Store. 888.408.2105, themarinstore.com Ceramic Farmers’ Market Baskets, $15-$26 at Christopher Home (Tiburon). 415.435.0111, christopher-salon.com Very Cherry Chutney by Ross’s own Tory’s Back Burner Bliss, $8 at Paradise Foods (Corte Madera). 415.945.8855, backburnerbliss.com Cotton napkins by Mill Valley’s Treehouse, $40 for a set of four at Tyler Florence (Mill Valley). 415.380.9200, tylerflorence.com M ARKET BAS KETS P HOTO: NATALIE NES S ER P HOTOGRAP HY/ NATALIENES S ER .C OM
Golden Corn Picks by Michael Aram, $79 for a set of four pairs at Bloomingdale’s (SF). 415.856.5300, bloomingdales.com
1
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It’s all here for the holidays... Arch Rival ❖ Lindisima ❖ Luxton Optical Johann Paul Jewelers ❖ Paper Crush Bon Air Salon & Spa ❖ Sandbox Art Of The Eye ❖ Woodlands Pet Food & Treats
Mollie Stone’s Market david M. brian CVS/pharmacy Just off Hwy. 101 on Sir Francis Drake Blvd.in Greenbrae 415-461-0200
www.bonair.com
FA S H I O N TRENDS
2
1
form&function T H E S E A S O N ’ S N E W E ST T I M E P I E C E S C E L E B R AT E D E S I G N BY SOMER FLAHERTY
Revere the craftsmanship of a watch that can tell time while still looking extraordinary. Whether you opt for a one-of-a-kind piece, a limitededition treasure or just a special find, the hours, months or sometimes years it takes to build a watch make for more than just another accessory. 1. Patrimony Traditionnelle Calibre 2755 watch with hand-stitched alligator leather strap by Vacheron Constantin, $639,000 at Tourneau (SF). 415.974.1846, vacheron-constantin.com 2. Ronde Fantaisiste watch by Cartier, available at Cartier (SF). 415.397.3180, cartier.com 3. U-Play watch with interchangeable bezel and bracelet by Gucci (SF). 415.392.2808, gucci.com 4. Double diamond aubergine watch by Louis Vuitton (SF). 415.391.6200, louisvuitton.com 5. Lady Diamonds Watch by De Beers, $15,000 at De Beers (SF). 415.391.1400, debeers.com 6. Bosco watch by Mill Valley’s Crow
5
6 4
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
P H OTO: CARTIER/ VI NCENT WULVERYC K, CARTIER 2 0 10
watches, $50 at Citrus (Tiburon). 415.435.1321, crowwatches.com
my peace thedoctorfor of mind .com
Everybody’s a little different. You’re uniquely you. And you want a doctor octor arin. who fits your life. That’s why we created thedoctorforyou.com/Marin. Now you can find a doctor in Marin using criteria that are important to yyou like location, specialty, gender, health plans accepted or even lan languages spoken. Our primary care doctors and specialists are Rebecca Li, MD Internal Medicine
accepting new patients. Call 1-888-699-DOCS (3627) to find a doctor for you.
thedoctorforyou.com/Marin
M A R I N TERV IEW
Tiffany Shlain HOME
M I L L VA L L E Y
O C C U PA T I O N
FILMMAKER, SPEAKER, ENTREPRENEUR
Tiffany Shlain became Wikipedia-worthy (and very busy) back in 1996, at the ripe age of 26, as the founder of the Webby Awards. Today Shlain juggles motherhood (seven-year-old Odessa and almosttwo-year-old Electra) and her filmmaking career, praising the Internet for allowing her to work from home sometimes and motherhood for reminding her of the importance of tickling, baking and butterfly spotting. Having grown up in Mill Valley (a Mill Valley Middle School Panther!), she and her family moved back to town from San Francisco in 2006 in search of redwoods and simplicity.
Favorite memories of growing up in Marin? There was this magical, funky place across from Mill Valley Market in the ’70s called the Unknown Museum. As a child it was like walking into a Terry Gilliam film … there were art cars covered with Barbie dolls, mirrors and things like Atari handsets. There was also a life-size horse completely covered with plastic objects from our collective experience. Other memories include rafting down Miller Avenue during the floods, my mom’s jean jumpsuit covered with sports car patches as she cheered us on at baseball games at Boyle Park and then the geodesic dome my dad built in our backyard complete with a hot tub. Your June 2010 commencement speech at UC Berkeley went viral; was this expected? I was so honored to be asked to give this address. It was a pivotal moment for me. I had just baby. It pushed me to articulate where I was in life, what I had learned so far, and then present this to 12,000 people. Yes, I was nervous. However, connecting with those graduates that day was a peak experience. And to see how many people have watched it since on YouTube was definitely unexpected. 34
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P H OTO: TIM P ORTER
lost my father (Leonard Shlain), turned 40 and had a new
What are you wearing? So glad you asked. Gold boots by Bay Area designer Martha Davis, clothes styled by my friends Kelly Sparks and Kat Yeh of StyleKouncil, and my hair and makeup were done by Persia Matine, who does the best work in the Bay Area; all can be found on my website. Did you expect the Webby Awards to have such staying power? When I first saw the web, I knew it would change the world. I worked hard establishing the Webby Awards for its first decade as I saw how the web was changing our lives. And as the technology continues to change, I believe the Webbys will continue to honor technology even if it grows beyond the web—just as the Grammys are named after the gramophone. Your last two films premiered at Sundance; are you working on anything new? I have a new feature documentary that is almost complete called Connected: A Declaration of Interdependence. It addresses the Internet and the way it’s changing our lives. It also tells a personal story about my own experience of connectedness. You have a film at the Guggenheim Museum? Ken, my husband, and I wrote a short script called “Yelp: With Apologies to Allen Ginsberg’s ‘Howl’.” My team and I turned it into a film and were all thrilled to hear it was selected out of 23,000 entries to make the first round of a competition that the Guggenheim Museum and YouTube conducted this year. Its basic message is “don’t forget to unplug” occasionally. While your list of achievements is long, anything you want to improve on? My husband and I try to do technology Shabbats. Not that it always works, but we try. As wired as we are, I know life is better when we unplug one day a week. What’s your favorite drink and where do you like to drink it? Having a margarita, watching the sunset with my family in Hana, Maui. MARINMAGAZINE.COM
MARIN NOVEMBER 2010
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T
FYI THE
FOR YOUR INFORMATION
TIPPING
POINT(S)
ANSWERS TO POTENTIALLY AWKWARD AND NOT-SOGRATUITOUS SITUATIONS FROM LOCAL INDUSTRY INSIDERS. BY SOMER FLAHERTY AND MIMI TOWLE PHOTOS TIM PORTER
M
imi, my coworker, looked flustered as she shoved a wad of bills into the valet’s outstretched palm. “What did you just do?” I asked as we slid into the car and pulled
away from San Francisco’s Grand Cafe. “I tipped him $15,” she said. “The sign said free va-
let— what do you tip on something that’s free?” I stared, not because I didn’t hear her but because I suddenly questioned my own years of gratuity-giving. I pondered whether I have gone through my adult life seriously under-tipping the valet. Suddenly the basic couple of bucks I’d been handing over with confidence didn’t just seem paltry; it seemed cheap. For a brief moment I wondered if tips could be like back taxes. Perhaps I could make up for past indiscretions and do a little reworking of the cosmic books by re-tipping the valets at my favorite haunts. Although I recognized that the $15 tip was merely a reflection of my coworker’s own uncertainties on the matter (particularly when the service rendered was free), the incident sparked animated conversation with friends, family, my hairstylist, and the rest of the staff here at the magazine: What do you tip? Faced with this apparently not-so-simple question, the aforementioned big tipper and I decided we’d try to
FOOD
cut through the cloudiness once and for all. Yet just as
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inquiring about another’s salary is considered
True enough, but even if
gauche, we found asking people how much
the service received was arro-
they tip erects either nonverbal cues to change
gant, rude or just plain bad,
the subject—awkward laughter, shifting, dart-
people we surveyed admit
ing eyes—or verbose answers that sound more
they usually still leave a tip,
like a defense attorney’s summation than a sim-
whether out of habit, reluc-
ple sum.
tance to be labeled a bad cus-
In our about-town research, we gathered
tomer or general fear of the
that people are willing to tip, and they certainly
server chasing them down
don’t want to under-tip, but how much is con-
the street. With that much
sidered the right amount to tip is still unclear.
settled, we hit the streets of
One of our most surprising discoveries was that
Marin to find out what’s con-
it’s wrong to assume people know to tip 15 to
sidered a minimum, fair or
20 percent in a restaurant. Even research by
generous tip from industry
Michael Lynn, a professor at Cornell University
folks on the receiving end.
who has written more than 40 papers on tipping, shows 30 percent of Americans surveyed
RESTAURANTS
weren’t aware this amount was de rigueur.
There are many misconcep-
Steve Dublanica, a former server following
Phil Bronstein, newspaper editor Tips to news delivery people should try not to reflect the decreasing weight of the papers themselves. You used to have to give the Sunday New York Times guy about $25 toward his hernia operation. Now (the paper is) almost a feather. But if it’s worth all the money we’re paying these days to still get news on newsprint—I like it despite my own heavy iPad use—it’s worth acknowledging the people who have to schlep it to you. I should be religious about this myself, even though I give at the office. But since I’ve probably been delinquent and cheap in the past, let me just say that this year I plan to tip all newspaper deliverers $25.
tions when it comes to res-
up his New York Times best seller Waiter Rant
taurant tipping, says Buckeye bartender Jeff
for a threesome. “I took two of the three.”
and an appearance on Oprah with this month’s
Burkhart. “It is assumed by the government
What do servers in the industry tip? Dawn
release of Keep the Change: A Clueless Tipper’s
(IRS) that servers receive at least 8 percent of
Agnew, a waitress for over 18 years at Gary
Quest to Become the Guru of the Gratuity, calls
their sales in tips. So some portion above that
Danko, says if she has great service, “I tip 20 to
tipping a relationship skill. “Tipping is some-
is always appreciated because they’ll get taxed
30 percent. If it is just okay service I tip 15 per-
thing that happens between people, and it can
on that percentage even if they were stiffed on
cent and if it is horrible, horrible service then
throw a monkey wrench into our relationship
a tip. Which means that the server is technically
I may leave a couple of dollars.” The industry
with each other,” he says. “Tipping is complete-
paying to wait on a non-tipping customer.”
veteran and Stinson resident says she takes ev-
ly voluntary unless it’s a service charge. You are
Burkhart also reminds us that most servers and
erything into account: “how many tables are in
under no obligation to tip if it’s lousy service.”
bartenders don’t keep all their tips. “In some
the server’s section, how many servers are on
restaurants there are bar-
the floor and whether or not the manager is
backs, busboys, food run-
helping them. If they are still giving bad service
ners, expediters, back servers,
with me giving them all these outs then they
bartenders, sommeliers and
don’t deserve what little I give them.”
hostesses—some of whom or
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
all of whom share in the tips.”
HAIR SALONS
The biggest tip he has re-
One of the most hotly debated topics during our
ceived? Two hundred bucks,
opinion-gathering was whether or not to tip the
along with half of a left-
owner of a hair salon. As tipping author Steve
over bottle of $600 French
Dublanica has found, “a lot of people don’t
Bordeaux...and an invi-
tip the salon owner, and I understand why, but
tation to join the couple
there are still some salon owners who like to be
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
37
Peter Schumacher local restaurateur Valet? $3 to $5 Meal? 20 percent for good service, between 20 and 25 percent for outstanding service. Tip on the tax? Yes Tip on the wine? Yes Tip on takeout? Yes, 5 to 10 percent of total bill.
lents such as a check or money order
Michael Mina
Karl Hoagland
of any value as a gift; however, they
partner, Larkspur Hotels
local restaurateur
are allowed to receive items valued
Meal? At least 15 percent but I usually round up
Valet? $5
at up to $20. Items can include cof-
to 20. For great service and positive attitude at inexpensive restaurants (like a pizza place) I will go well above 20 percent to make a statement— for $5 extra you can really make someone’s day.
Meal? At least 20 percent Tip on the tax? Yes Subtract the wine cost from the tip? Never
Tip on the tax? Yes
fee shop or retailer gift cards.
GARBAGE COLLECTORS Mill Valley Refuse manager Jim
Lavarone says tips for a garbage
Subtract the wine? No—if I’m drinking I’m usually in a more generous mood anyway.
service? On the other hand, if
the relationship a person has with the collector:
Tip on takeout? I usually round up to the nearest
you walk away feeling amazing
“People just give what they can and the guys
$10. Working a busy takeout business is probably harder and more hectic than waiting tables.
and elevated, than maybe you
really appreciate it.” He says tips can be non-
want to acknowledge the won-
monetary like personally baked cookies, fruit-
derful service with a 20 percent
cakes, six-packs of beer or a bottle of wine. As
tip or more.”
for cash, it depends on what people can afford.
collector tend to vary depending on
tipped—my own barber, he wants a tip.” It’s a
Lili Shahabi, who owns Lili
“It’s not something where you can say it’s a per-
sticky situation, he concedes. “There’s no tried-
S. Salon in Sausalito, agrees. “Twenty percent
centage of the bill like at a restaurant.” He’s
and-true answer, but if it’s been your habit to tip
and up for a tip, but it depends on how much
heard of collectors in Belvedere getting $100
the salon owner, you’re stuck and should keep
they liked their service and what’s in their bud-
in tips for the holidays as a one-time bonus—
tipping. What are you going to do, turn to the
get.” Shahabi says some people think the hair
but also notes that collectors may have made
guy and say I’m not tipping you anymore?”
salon owners make more money than non-own-
more in tips back when there was just one
For the owner’s side, we went to Christopher
ers, but that isn’t always the case. “Sometimes
Downs of Christopher’s Salon in Tiburon.
the owners make less money than the other
“Should an owner be tipped? That is an age-old
people there. It shouldn’t matter if they’re the
question; everybody likes to be acknowledged
owner. If you like something then you should
and feel appreciated,” he says. Still, “I feel tip-
tip for it.”
ping should be left up to the discretion of the tipper. One should feel comfortable about the
POSTAL WORKERS
amount (one is) handing out. I think the value
Delivery workers like letter carriers tend to get
should lie upon the service that was rendered,”
tipped most during the holidays, but be careful
he adds. “Yes, the general rule of thumb is 20
what you give—some companies have policies
percent of the service, but if the service was not
about receiving cash gratuities. The United States
up to your expectations, why encourage less-
Postal Service’s James Wigdel says letter carriers
than-perfect performance on your (subsequent)
are not permitted to accept cash or cash equiva-
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NOVEMBER 2010
Sammy Hagar musician, restaurateur Valet? Because I have special cars I tip $10 to $20. Meal? 20 percent minus wine always—because I buy expensive wine—and no on tax. Tip on takeout? Most times I tip $10 to $20.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
HOTEL TIPS
Tolan & Tyler Florence Food Network host, restaurant and retail entrepreneur
Jon Kimball
Valet? $5
Tiburon resident and general manager, Westin St. Francis
Meal? We always tip minimum 20 percent depending on service,
Has hotel tipping changed? Yes I’ve been
sometimes 30 percent if the service was phenomenal and yes, we tip that on top of tax and wine.
in the business for 25 years, and I believe
Tip on takeout? Yes.
of exceptional service. Restaurant gratuities
guests are more generous and appreciative are moving from what was once 15 percent traditional to 20 percent. More and more
collector per house. “Things have changed
guests are carrying their own bag, utilizing
now because there’s a green can man, recy-
Larry Mindel
roller bags. Bell service is less utilized.
cling man and garbage man. If (people are)
founder of Il Fornaio
What are some standards?
going to tip one they’re probably going to tip
Valet? $5
Bellhop: $1 to $2.50 per bag based on how
three now.” That means workers are “probably
Meal? 20 percent
outgoing bellmen may be in showing guests
making less in tips than they used to.”
Tip on the tax? Yes
GARDENERS Clean Air Lawn Care’s Mill Nash says tips for
Tip on the wine? Yes Tip on takeout? Yes
around the hotel and guest room. Maid service: $1 to $2 per night Valet: $2 to $5, depending on how quickly the car is retrieved and how service-focused the valet is (just tip on the pickup).
gardening services depend on the level of service. “If it’s a simple mow-and-blow I’m prob-
PARKING
Concierge service: For truly exceptional
ably not getting tipped. If I’m giving a lot of
At Piatti in Mill Valley, which offers free valet
assistance $5 to $20 per request or after
service throughout the year sometimes I’ll get a
parking during lunch on Tuesday, Wednesday
the entire stay.
nice card and $100.” Nash says the tips are nev-
and Thursday, valets average $3 to $5 per tip,
er expected, but if you have a regular garden or
and most patrons do tip on pickup. The big-
If you need something like a toothbrush or
lawn service provider, tipping one or two servic-
gest tip a valet has received: $20.
sewing kit and a hotel worker brings it up
es’ worth during the holidays is pretty standard.
Doorman to hail a taxi: $1
are you supposed to tip? It is not necessary but always appreciated, $2 per delivery.
NEWSPAPER DELIVERY
Joseph Humphrey
That morning paper comes perfectly protected
Michelin-star chef
from the elements due to the hard work of paper delivery people. Charlie Longer, a home delivery manager at the Marin Independent Journal, says tipping varies, but some customers tip between $5 and $50 for the holidays. Others tip with every payment, usually rounding to the next $5 or $10 level.
If there is something missing from the room such as hair dryer or towels and a
Meal? Usually 20 percent
hotel worker brings it to you do you still
unless treated terribly.
tip? No, I don’t believe this is necessary.
Tip on the tax? Usually not on the tax. Tip on the wine? Yes, unless I go really big. Tip on takeout? Usually a
NANNY/HOUSEKEEPER
couple of bucks.
It’s always a good idea to show generosity to someone who is caring for your child. At Town & Country Resources, a household staffing
Still not sure what to tip? Tipping guru Steve
agency, owner Jens Hillen says he’s heard cli-
Dublanica suggests picking up an etiquette
ents are paying household staff anywhere from
book or just remember, “like not peeing in a
a couple hundred dollars to 5 or 10 percent of
public pool, tipping is a nice thing people do
the nanny’s annual salary for a holiday bonus.
for each other.”
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NOVEMBER 2010
39
F Y I COMMUNIT Y
Giving Locally Want to make a mindful contribution? Here are some ways besides cash to give back B Y C H R I S T I N E B R O N S T E I N
D e s p e r at e f l o o d v i c t i m s , a six-year-old taking the
wrong bullet, an elderly veteran begging on the median strip— every day we are bombarded with images of people in need both nearby and far away. While these images can be overwhelming, there are small ways to help that can actually benefit others on a much larger scale. As Buddhist peace activist Thich Nhat Hanh notes, “it is possible that the next Buddha
will not take the form of an individual,” but instead take the form of “a community practicing understanding and loving-kindness, a community practicing mindful living. This may be the most important thing we do for the survival of the earth.” This month, just in time for the holidays, we’re spotlighting a few easy ways to give back right here in Marin. After all, charity should start at home, right?
A Home Away from Homelessness Founded in 1994, this organization now serves more than 250 homeless and formerly homeless children and 200 families through five programs—Beach House, School House, Youth Leaders, Mentor Program, and Educational Advocacy—in San Francisco and Marin.
Volunteer Candis Cleveland plays dress-up with children at the Beach House.
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The Beach House is a cozy cottage in the Marin Headlands where, five days a week, Home Away brings small groups of homeless children ages 5 to 17 from local shelters. “This is often these kids’ only respite from the harsh realities of homelessness,” says Home Away founder Jeanie Kortum. “The Beach House gives the kids a sense of place to be in life, a place where they belong. And the volunteers provide love and encouragement that gives them a sense of safety, home and childhood that they might not otherwise have.” These are some items that would be particularly appreciated at the Beach House this time of year: soccer balls, volleyballs, footballs, basketballs, badminton rackets, board games (for elementary/middle school age), dress-up clothes and costumes, puppets, kid-friendly binoculars, sand toys, kites, movie passes and gift cards for Target, Barnes and Noble, Borders, the Gap, Old Navy, Safeway, Trader Joe’s, Cole Hardware and Home Depot. (Please clear your donation in advance with info@homeaway.org to avoid overlaps.) The Beach House needs volunteers as well as donations; a one-day training session is required. For information and an updated wish list, call 415.561.5533 or visit homeaway.org.
Holiday Clothing Swap Put those clothes your family no longer wears, cluttering up your closets, to good use. Two local organizations help disadvantaged people find economic independence by providing appropriate work-wear, training and more. Image for Success, founded in 1999, has dressed more than 5,300 women, men and children in Marin, providing interview outfits and two-week wardrobes, and also operates a “gently worn” clothing store in San Rafael (1557 4th Street, between E and F streets). Image for Success and its clients could use these items: kids’ coats, shoes, jeans (all sizes), packaged (new) boys’ and girls’ underpants, tights and socks, fabric freshener, shoe polish, lint removers, gift cards for Target, Ross and Marshalls, tall kitchen trash bags and large garbage bags, medium and large shopping bags. Dress for Success is a global organization that helps economically disadvantaged
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NOVEMBER 2010
41
women acquire and retain jobs and thrive in the mainstream workplace. Since its 2005 San Francisco opening in the basement of St.
OZZIE GETS THE CURLS
Mary’s Church in San Francisco, the group
FROM HER MOTHER’S SIDE OF THE FAMILY.
has given assistance to more than 2,000 Bay Area women and also helped them with their careers. All was made possible by local donations, San Francisco executive director Renée Surcouf says. “Non-monetary support is just as important as financial support,” she adds. “We are fully dependent on donations from the community.” This year Dress for Success is looking for plus-size women’s suits as well as accessories, bags and shoes. To lend an even bigger hand, arrange with the two groups to host a holiday clothing swap party and invite a group of friends to bring unwanted items from their closet to sell. Clothes are priced in preset categories—for example, a $100 bin, a $50 bin, a $25 bin. Guests can shop, enjoy wine and cheese and help local women all at the same time. Proceeds go to Image for Success or Dress for Success, as do the items left unsold at the end. Don’t have time for a party? Give directly by contacting imageforsuccess.org/donations or dressforsuccess.org.
Serve the Seniors For over 50 years Whistlestop has been serving Marin’s elderly and people with disabilities in a multitude of ways including providing meals, transportation, legal counseling, tax preparation, multilingual support and classes in exercise, language and computer skills. Whistlestop creates active community members and steps in when and wherever Marin county older adults need help. The organization is looking for the following: Lunch servers daily from 11:30 to 1:30 at the Jackson Café at 930 Tamalpais Avenue, San Rafael. Lounge hostesses to visit with those who
WE KNOW THEM LIKE YOU DO.
come to the Whistlestop location in San Rafael. Resource office help answering tele-
LODGING
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er work, and making appointments for tax sea-
•
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•
•
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son and legal counseling.
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Tax consultant volunteers: Annually during tax season several people volunteer as tax consultants. All these volunteers are given training by the IRS to certify them as VITA consultants. The volunteers help low-income older adults with filing their basic taxes. Learn more at whistlestop.com.
SMART SERVICE Wondering where to volunteer? The Catalista smart-phone app, listed as a “top 10 app to make a difference”
“The moment I saw The Tamalpais, I knew it was the right place for me.
by Discovery.com, locates real-time
I am a person who lives
opportunities to help out no matter
in the moment, so I like
where you are. Available for iPhone,
knowing I don’t have to
iPod touch and Android, the user-
spend my time worrying
friendly app connects you with ways
about the future.”
to donate your time that day, weekend or month; helps you invite Facebook friends to volunteer along with you;
Resident T-Y Shen,
Retired economics professor and avid hiker © 2010 NCPHS, Inc. All rights reserved.
and lets you track your impact and rate your volunteering experience. Choose from over 200,000 options across the United States. “Catalista for iPhone was created to help reverse the falling volunteering rates and what the National Conference on Citizenship has (termed) a ‘civic recession,’” says founder and activist Catalina RuizHealy. Research from the Corporation of Community and National Service has found that since 2001, volunteering rates have fallen 27 percent, costing the nonprofit sector roughly $77 billion and the equivalent in time of nearly 3 million full-time jobs.
Your future begins with the decisions you make today. To find out how you can gain the peace of mind shared by T-Y Shen and all our Life Care residents, call Nancy Martin at 415.464.1754, and ask about our new contract options.
Ruiz-Healy believes, “it will be easier for people to discover and connect with ways to help in their communities
501 Via Casitas, Greenbrae, CA 94904 Tel: 415.461.2300 | www.thetam.org
through a smart phone rather than a desktop computer. Catalista’s Facebook integration makes it fun to encourage friends to get offline and
The Tamalpais is an accredited continuing care retirement community. The Tamalpais is a not-for-profit community of Northern California Presbyterian Homes and Services. License# 210102761 COA# 099
lend a hand in the recovery of our neighborhoods and local nonprofits.”
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
43
F I R ST PE RSON
Anahata and my garden Sleepy Hollow is the perfect place for a writer to live. I get a lot of writing done, when I’m not in my garden, that is. Our house is surrounded by woods and hills, with a creek dancing along the right edge that’s lined by giant rock sentinels. Apart from being charmed by the name of the area and its street names, like Van Winkle Drive and Ichabod Lane, I was thrilled to have a garden. Having lived for years in a flat by the sea in Greece, I’d made do with potted flowers. Now with almost an acre to plant, I couldn’t wait to get started. B Y PAT R I C I A V. DAV I S
I bought boxes and boxes of colorful blooms and
where scattered specks of color that had once been my
dug daily, my nails turning brown, until that garden grew
beloved flowers lay strewn, as though they’d tried to es-
plush. I reveled in its vibrancy. Then deer came by the
cape the terrible siege and had perished in the effort.
dozens, grown and small, with antlers and without. I’d
The deer became my enemy then. Armed with foul-
never seen them up close. They seemed magnificent and
smelling spray, I attacked. They retreated for a while, until
graceful. A gift from nature, even.
they concluded that rotten egg and garlic spray made
Until the morning I discovered my garden now looked like leftover dinner salad. The deer had eaten their way through everything, even ivy vines. In dismay, I looked at
great salad dressing. They murdered my flowers a second time. This made me cry. Then it made me furious. My husband couldn’t understand my perspective. He’d shared space with various wild animals since he’d been born. “Why not just plant things they won’t eat?” he asked pragmatically. Judging by the predominance of oleander, everyone else had surrendered to the deer. But I wouldn’t. Now I’d run outdoors whenever I saw deer, shooing them away. I’d spray them with the hose while I watered my garden. They’d scramble momentarily, then come back again when they knew I wasn’t looking. “It’s not personal. Stop planting deer food and they won’t come,” my husband said. I despised the deer because I couldn’t thwart them. I was annoyed with my husband, too. Then, on Father’s Day, I heard a high-pitched bleating coming from the other side of our creek. As I walked across the lawn to investigate, a doe stepped from behind a tree and stared down at me. A head-on stare is an
Do you have a story to tell? Submit your own First Person narrative for consideration in a future Marin Magazine issue. For word count and guidelines, e-mail editorial@marinmagazine.com.
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unusual stance for a deer. Her ears were bent forward,
chased deer from her garden, was going to save this one.
and she was making a sound I’d never heard a deer
Marin Humane Society’s estimation was not so bleak. The
make—almost a growl. The bleating started up again,
vet determined that the fawn had been fed one last time
much closer this time, and I understood. I was hearing
by her mother. Her belly was still full. She’d be released
the sound of her newborn fawn. She was a mother pro-
when she was able to survive on her own, probably to eat
tecting her baby. I stepped back.
my flowers another day.
All at once, she staggered across the hill, swaying,
As for her mother, the vet gently closed her eyes. Then
until her knees gave way. She collapsed and began slid-
he and my husband carried her down the hill and into the
ing down the hill. At any moment she’d come tumbling
back of a second waiting van. I watched as it drove away.
over onto the lawn where I stood. It was a pile of logs
I’m not Hindu. But according to Hindi tradition,
gathered at the base of the retaining wall that stopped
Anahata is the fourth chakra, which symbolizes empathy
her. I watched in horror as she thrashed on her side, her legs tangled in the logs, desperately trying to get her
I felt something in that look. It was the look of one mother
footing. Exhausted, she gave up. Then, from her prone
to another, going straight through me as surely as if she’d
position, she feebly but determinedly twisted her head
spoken. Because of that, I said this out loud to her: “I’ll
up and looked at me.
find your baby. And I promise she won’t be harmed.”
She might’ve been afraid of me, because I’d always chased her kind away. But … no. I felt something else
and selflessness. This center force inspires humans to love,
in that look. It was the look of one mother to another,
be compassionate, and divine the way things happen.
going straight through me as surely as if she’d spoken. Because of that, I said this out loud to her: “I’ll find your baby. And I promise she won’t be harmed.”
Wouldn’t you know it? The animal it’s represented by is the deer. I’m not Hindu, I’ll say again. But I know what I ex-
It was as though she understood. With one weak
perienced. That doe and I communicated through our
nod, she lay her head down again, looked up at the sky
bond of motherhood. We became more than two dif-
and … those brown doe eyes slowly filmed white.
ferent species on opposite sides. With her dying breath,
I ran into the house, calling for my husband, who
she looked at me—her enemy—and saw something in me
came outside, peered at her and confirmed what I al-
that was like her. She knew she could ask for my help
ready knew. “She’s gone, all right.” Then, gently, “Where
with the one thing left for her here to take care of—her
did you hear the fawn?”
most precious thing.
Teary-eyed, I pointed in the direction of the creek. He said, “We’ll have to be quiet, or we’ll scare it.” I followed him. I couldn’t see anything, but then he lifted his arm and whispered, “There.” Sure enough, sitting in a bed of leaves, looking directly at us with curiosity, not fear, was the tiniest fawn.
I didn’t let her down. My garden is different now. I keep two giant pots of red geraniums high on a porch where no animals can reach, as a reminder that beauty can never excuse arrogance. The rest is filled with lavender. It smells wonderful. And the deer and I are at peace with each other.
My husband’s tone was regretful. “That doe was probably too old or sick to survive giving birth. That could
Patricia V. Davis is author of the award-winning
mean she wasn’t able to nurse. That’s not good. If we can’t
Harlot’s Sauce: A Memoir of Food, Family, Love, Loss,
get milk into this little thing soon, she won’t make it.”
and Greece and the upcoming Diva Doctrine: From an
I was beside myself. I’d made a promise, and if my husband was right, I had to figure out how I, a woman who MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Older Woman to a Younger One (Cedar Fort, 2011). Visit her online at patriciaVdavis.com. MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
45
C O N V ERSAT ION
Kathleen
Jackson
What’s a San Anselmo senior doing inside San Quentin State Prison? BY J I M WO O D
B a s e d o n a p p e a r a n c e s , you would imagine Kathleen Jackson’s involvements
are raising hybrid roses, or plein air painting, or tending grandchildren (she has three). For 24 years, Jackson was a teacher and administrator at the prestigious Marin Country Day School in Corte Madera. And she has the subtle in-control look of a career educator.
“The men call me Kathleen,” she adds. “That’s what I prefer.” Jackson, divorced and a 20-year Marin resident, has been volunteering at the prison for the past three years. She ners dediT.R.U.S.T. members, a group of priso around. lives their turn rs cated to helping othe
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MARIN NOVEMBER 2010
works primarily with a group named T.R.U.S.T., an acronym for Teaching Responsibility Utilizing Sociological Techniques. Its tag line: “Changing Liabilities into Assets.”
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTO: TIM PORTER
Only now, at 75, her charges aren’t the offspring of Marin’s affluent—they are inmates at San Quentin State Prison. “Many of them are lifers,” she says matter-of-factly.
“I am the only one working with the men on curriculum and how to be a teacher, but several other volunteers offer their skills and support,” Jackson continues. “These men created the San Quentin T.R.U.S.T., which has its own objectives, by-laws and executive committee … they are prisoners helping other prisoners turn their lives around.”
There are hundreds of hotels around the bay, but only one directly on it.
After retiring from Marin Country Day School and teaching 12th-grade English at an inner-city Oakland charter public school for three years, Jackson was steered to San Quentin by the Stupski Foundation, a Bay Area private fund dedicated to “improving life options for those of color and poverty.” Observing one class of the Prison University Project at the moderate-security prison had her hooked. “I felt extremely at home there; it was a place where I really wanted to be.” In 2008, Jackson became the executive advisor to T.R.U.S.T. and has worked to organize food sales and health fairs inside San Quentin; advise the Richmond Project, a San Quentin
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outreach effort to improve life in that Contra Costa County community; and conduct weekly classes on topics ranging from anger management to male-female communications, child development, time management and poetry. Each once-a-week class takes several hours to prepare, is taught by a T.R.U.S.T. fellow, a guest speaker or Jackson and attracts from 35 to 40 convicts. Over a seven-month semester, 25 classes are given and, with few exceptions, the slender Jackson is the only “outsider” in the room. “It’s really become my life,” she says with a smile, “and I love it.”
Over the three years you’ve been teaching inside San Quentin, have you ever been in danger or felt fearful? No, I have not; being inside the prison is a very natural place for me to be. I like being there. Early on, I fully realized that if taken hostage I would not be rescued or be a subject of bargaining.
What are characteristics of the men you work with? I have to say, working with these men has shown me that here is an amazingly talented population that is mostly ignored or
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MARIN NOVEMBER 2010
47
forgotten. Living in Marin, we drive by San
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Quentin constantly, but do we have any idea who is inside? Do we think about what they are doing and what they are thinking? The men I work with in the T.R.U.S.T.—mostly lifers—have done a lot of work on themselves and, to my way of thinking, would make the community a safer place if they were outside. Why? Because they have worked on themselves for a very, very long time; they have dealt with their anger and they’ve dealt with their liabilities and worked to turn them into abilities, or assets. They understand the population that gets into trouble much better than those in law enforcement, political positions or the everyday citizen. Many of those I am with
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say that if they ever get out, they want to work with at-risk young people.
Will you give specific examples? Okay. I’ll start with James Houston, who is from Richmond; he’s chairman of the Richmond Project and a T.R.U.S.T. fellow. He is a 42-yearold African American—a beautiful man inside and out, in excellent physical condition. In the past three years I’ve seen him grow tremendously in public speaking, organizing his tasks and conveying the concept that in order for inmates to do good in the world, they first must work on themselves. Last Monday, James led a discussion on how to stay positive and help others do likewise. He shared that he grew up with a mother who insisted he stay out of trouble and remain
Robert H. Byers, MD Lisa M. Elvin, NP Jon R. Goff, MD David H. Goltz, MD John C. Keohane, MD Michael J. Oechsel, MD Ernest H. Sponzilli, MD Michael S. Stock, MD Charles A. Stuart, MD Brian W. Su, MD
in school. However, James fell in with a drinking crowd and that was that. I think he has served 20 years of a life sentence and I am not sure what crime he committed, as we are not supposed to ask. In February, James is going before the parole board for the first time and he’s busy preparing for that. Personally, I feel it is so wrong to lock up people for years and years because of one mistake—as long as they’ve worked on themselves continuously. James is a devout Christian who spends a lot of time mentor-
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ing other convicts on his tier, in the yard, or wherever he goes. He maintains he would be dead if he hadn’t been put in San Quentin,
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that he has matured while in prison and that he is now ready to be a good father to his 14-year-old son.
Another example, please? Darnell Hill is 45, an African American who’s married and who came to San Quentin about 25 years ago with his father, who taught him how to burglarize. At Monday’s session, he told me half the men who are incarcerated have fathers who are also incarcerated, and that trend will continue if something is not done to stop it. Darnell is chairperson of the T.R.U.S.T. and he is very articulate—all of these men are so smart. He is also in excellent shape, he keeps his hair in cornrows and is immaculate in his dress—his light blue denim shirt is always perfectly creased. Darnell is definitely a doer. He went before the parole board about three years ago and was told he was “not quite ready” because he did not show “enough remorse.” Well, how does one show remorse? As far as I’m concerned you stay active, you train and mentor others, you participate in programs— and Darnell has done all of that. Then there are others such as Larry, or “Doc,” Histon, who was in the financial business and now gives seminars on time management and organizational skills. Also, Demetrius Daniels and Noel Valdiva, who are out now and are working with T.R.U.S.T. members to establish “halfway” houses similar to Delancey Street, the highly successful San Francisco program.
Currently, are you a “committee of one” working with the T.R.U.S.T. and advising the Richmond Project and the food sales and health fairs inside San Quentin? Not exactly. There are graduate students from Berkeley, Mills College and St. Mary’s who often help with undertakings. If anyone with the required skills is willing to conduct one of our self-improvement sessions, they are always welcome. However, it does take training and enduring the bureaucracy. For information, readers should go to sanquentintrust.org or email me at kathleen@ sanquentintrust.org.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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California’s gubernatorial candidates make their cases in Marin BY JACOBA CH A R L E S PHOTOS BY T I M PORTE R
DOMINICAN’S BIG
DEBATE The sleepy campus of Dominican University in
San Rafael was buzzing on the second Tuesday in October. Reporters and television trucks clogged streets that had been closed to traffic, preparing for the final debate in Jerry Brown and Meg Whitman’s contentious race to become governor of California. By late afternoon, hundreds of demonstrators had gathered behind police barricades across from Angelico Hall, using megaphones to shout support for their favorite candidate. Well-dressed debate-goers lingered outside the hall in the autumn heat, sipping ice water flavored with lemon, orange and mint as late afternoon light filtered through the yellow leaves of a Japanese maple. Nearby, television personalities clustered on a brightly lit outdoor platform to discuss the coming event. Eventually the ticketed audience—which included Sen. Dianne Feinstein, Rep. Lynn Woolsey and other local political luminaries—filed into the dim theater. The hum of the crowd quieted as moderator Tom Brokaw limped onstage, dapper in a dark suit despite being on crutches. “This is kind of a metaphor for California—we’re both broken at the moment,” the former NBC news anchor quipped, explaining that only days before he had injured his ankle at his ranch in Montana. “The difference is, I hope to be repaired by the first of the year.”
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C OMMU NI T Y
S TO RY & P H OTO S BY D AV E B A R T R U F F
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For the next hour, Brokaw fired questions at the candidates while an enthusiastic audience chimed in with shouts, laughter and applause.
to form his own media production company and was ideally situated to arrange media coverage of the incipient event.
The event was the most widely broadcast of the gubernatorial elec-
From the time that he was suggested, the cards quickly fell into
tion’s three debates. Yet many in Marin did wonder how such a high-
place. Myers called Alongi and reached him on his cell phone while he
profile event came to a small, private university in San Rafael.
was fulfilling one last commitment for NBC—covering the Olympics.
The answer to that question starts with a lean brunette named
He was working alongside his longtime friend and colleague Tom
Maureen Keefe, the university’s vice president of external relations. In
Brokaw, who also happened to be Dominican’s top choice for modera-
2008, Keefe was intrigued by a brief mention in a news report that only
tor. Brokaw agreed to participate on the spot.
a handful of universities had applied to host vice presidential debates.
“And just like that, we had our team,” Keefe says.
“At the time I thought, ‘wouldn’t it be great to have a political de-
“If there’s a can-do attitude then there’s no reason not to move
bate here at Dominican,’” she says. “Our students so represent the over-
forward,” Alongi says, describing his own enthusiasm for the project.
all demography of the state that this is a natural place for it.”
“Dominican may be small, but if it was an unknown, that’s no longer
As Keefe investigated the idea, she learned that hosting a guberna-
the case.”
torial debate was a very realistic option. Compared to presidential de-
NBC agreed to cover the event very early on, Alongi says. Other me-
bates, these are almost grassroots affairs. Anyone can hold one if both
dia outlets came aboard. Ultimately dozens of news organizations at-
the candidates and the media agree to show up.
tended the debate, from the New York Times to NPR to Fox News.
To that end, Keefe was referred to Cindy Myers, who was the senior
The team then had to wait until June’s primary elections were over
media adviser for the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Myers
to ask the winning candidates if they would attend. Formal invitations
recommended they add Phil Alongi to the project. As the former execu-
were sent to Brown and Whitman by FedEx on the day after the prima-
tive producer for NBC News special events, Alongi had retired in 2009
ry, and both candidates responded promptly and affirmatively.
BY THE NUMBERS
2
5
8
34
The number of venues on campus where the debate was watched: Angelico and Caleruega Dining Hall.
The number of student and community focus groups organized to debate the debate at Guzman Hall.
The number of NBC Bay Area cameras being used in Angelico Hall for the debate.
The number of additional guards Barbier Security added to its force for the debate.
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C L OC K W I S E F ROM OP P O S I T E L E F T: Dom i n ica n’s de bate tea m i ncluded M au r een K eefe, Ci ndy Myer s, P hi l A long i a nd Un iver sit y P r esident Joseph F i n k; N BC employees i n t he br oadcast boot h follo w a t r a nsc r ipt of t he de bate; demonst r ator s sta nd behi nd t he ba r r icade; a T V r epor ter ta l ks to t he ca mer a befor e a c r o w ded backd r op of suppor ter s a nd demonst r ator s.
53
60
70
123
In feet, the length of the NBC Bay Area television production truck parked on Acacia Street.
In minutes, the length of the debate.
In feet, the height of the AT&T cell phone tower temporarily erected for the debate.
The number of people who volunteered at Dominican to help with the debate. MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
53
From that moment in early June until the last TV crew packed up
As well as attending to the media and the community, Dominican
their cameras and went home the night of October 12, the staff at
approached the event as a unique lesson for its students. Involvement
Dominican spent much of their time attending to the myriad details re-
ranged from having the Green MBA students improve the events environ-
quired to put on such an event.
mental impact to a multidisciplinary class with Brokaw to volunteering.
“I wouldn’t say that there were hitches, but there definitely were
“This is a marvelous chance for us to provide an educational opportunity for our students,” says Dominican President Joseph Fink, who
challenges,” Keefe says. These challenges ranged from planning parking for the influx of visitors to accommodating the technical needs of more than 200 report-
started his career in academia by earning a Ph.D. in American history and is retiring next year after 23 years at the school.
ers and TV crews. The particulars sometimes seemed obscure—at the
“To see a political debate of this type available on our campus is re-
request of NBC, volunteers were stationed at each fire alarm to make
warding for me personally, but it’s also rewarding because it’s part of
sure no prankster interrupted the debate.
the fulfillment of the mission of the university,” he says.
Meetings were held with neighbors to seek their support and pa-
After months of planning, the affair went smoothly. Visitors appeared
tience, as well with local law enforcement officials, who worried about
unperturbed by the heat or having to navigate multiple security barri-
how demonstrators might behave and decided to close off several
cades and ticket checkpoints. They were happy to mingle and chat while
blocks of Grand Avenue for security purposes.
waiting for the debate to start, ignoring the shouts of the demonstrators.
In order to guarantee fair access to the debate, Dominican held a
As the audience began to shuffle up the steps of Angelico Hall, a
lottery for the free tickets. Nearly 4,000 students and members of the
man turned to his gray-bearded companion and said, “This is incred-
public competed for fewer than 800 seats.
ible. It really is an event.”
BY THE NUMBERS
201
422
Media credential requests received for the debate as of October 7.
The number of parking spaces on the Dominican campus.
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750 1,287 The number of available seats in Angelico Hall for the live debate.
The number of entries received on the first day of the September 7 Dominican debate ticket lottery.
RECAP WITH
TOM BROKAW In regard to candidates answering with specifics, how did this compare with other debates you have moderated? Actually, I thought they were surprisingly responsive to the questions and quite specific in their answers.
Granted, there was stimulating verbal sparring, but did either candidate articulate attainable solutions to California’s problems? Personally, I thought they could have used my final question regarding the structural flaws of California governing to get at big issues of reform more effectively.
From your vantage point as moderator, did either candidate win the debate? I never declare a winner or loser; it’s up to the viewers.
What were Jerry Brown’s best and worst moments? Meg Whitman’s best and worst moments?
B E L OW: Moder ator Tom Br okaw pa r t icipates i n a pr e - de bate Q& A session w it h Dom i n ica n st udents a nd fac ult y i n t he ca mpus li br a r y.
Again, I just make the pitches; I don’t call balls and strikes.
Do you have any final thoughts? I was encouraged they told voters there
How will this gubernatorial contest play out on the national political scene? California’s governor’s
would be pain and sacrifice ahead. The
race is the most important in the country
ship of state will sink. I thought they both
because of the state’s powerful influences
played well to their constituencies. The
and because of the great contrast between
question is, did either pull any voters
the candidates.
across the line? — J I M WO O D
near- and long-term future will require all Californians to pull on the oars or the
2,234
3,745
The total number of students enrolled at Dominican this fall, a school record.
The total number of entries in the Dominican debate ticket lottery when it closed on September 23.
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
55
LI F E
Marin—where hybrid cars abound—embraces the hybrid dog BY M A N DY B EH B EH A N I y P H OTO S T I M P O RT ER
doodles oodles of
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5 57 7
i
t seems as if every Marin neighborhood, park and hiking trail is full of them—fluffy, bouncy, floppy-eared dogs who gambol merrily about, tails wagging and tongues hanging out, as if they were escapees from the movie Hotel For Dogs.
Although she had a dog when growing up and while her kids were growing up, her family has not had a dog for more than 30 years. “We decided to get Maxx because my husband retired recently, I like to walk and I like to walk with an animal,” says Spaeth. “We’re
A doodle, if you haven’t heard, is the latest pricy designer dog
empty nesters. My grandchildren and kids live across the country, and
to create a craze in the canine cosmos: a mix of poodle with either
I thought it would be a good addition to our nest, and something to
Labrador (Labradoodle) or Golden Retriever (Goldendoodle).
structure my husband’s retirement.”
A dog priced at $2,000 and up needs an affluent place like Marin to prosper, but doodle owners think the price is right for pooches
doodle mania
with intelligence, a sweet disposition, and a propensity to shed less
Doodle numbers are up in Marin, say dog professionals, observing the
than the average mutt, a result of their poodle lineage. Doodles are
influx of doodles in the county.
also agile, seem to do well with families, children and other household dogs, and are easily trainable, mostly for what Trish King, the Marin Humane Society’s director of training, euphemistically calls their “over-exuberance.”
“We have them coming in droves,” says Kirsten Hrobsky, training director at Camp K-9 of Marin in Corte Madera. In 2006, 4 percent of her doggy day care patrons were doodles. In 2009, that number reached 18 percent. “We’ve seen other ‘designer
+ That childlike vivacity, in fact, is a large part of a doodle’s charm, appealing to one of the doodles’ principal set of buyers—empty nesters who admit they acquired their dogs to help fill the void on that couch in the living room.
= breeds’ increasing slightly,” says Hrobsky, like the schnoodle (schnauzer/poodle), “but it’s nothing to the extent of doodles.” She says the increase is due in part to the dogs being intentionally bred now instead of, as in the past, being purely natural mixes between
Betsy Jonckheer of Ross, who has an elegant shock of white hair,
dog breeds.
delights in telling you that she looks just like her Goldendoodle, Luke.
Mary Powell, a registration specialist with the American Canine
The two are inseparable. “He’s been coming to Peet’s in Bon Air with
Hybrid Club in Arkansas, says the Goldendoodle was the most registered
me since he was weeks old, and to Glamorous Nails in San Anselmo,
dog hybrid in 2007 and 2009. Labradoodles were third in 2007 and fifth
where I go to get my nails done,” she says. “And if I don’t bring him,
in 2009. For 2010, Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are the second and
they say, ‘Where’s Luke? Where’s your boyfriend?’
third most registered mixes. (Just so you don’t offend the purists, doodles
Sparkie Spaeth, who works for the Marin County Department of
are not breeds; they are considered “hybrids,” like tea roses.)
Health and Human Services and lives on the Peacock Gap golf course
“We have seen quite a lot more Labradoodles in behavior and train-
in San Rafael, got her Goldendoodle Maxx at the end of February when
ing classes, up 10 percent over the past three years,” says King of the
he was eight and a half weeks.
Humane Society.
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San Rafael veterinarian Kristen Harris, of
“All the family came for the wedding,”
Marin Pet Hospital, says she is seeing 20 to
Shin says. “From Korea, Saudi Arabia, all
30 percent more of the mixes in the last few
over. And they met Buddy and went goo-goo
years, particularly Goldendoodles.
gaga over him and wanted to steal him. They
“Breed popularity can be very trendy,”
weren’t paying attention to the bride and
says Harris. “But there are also some great
groom at all. So when one of my brothers
characteristics about Labradors, Golden
moved back to the U.S. and bought a house
Retrievers, and poodles. People tend to be
in New Jersey he wanted to get Buddy’s sib-
drawn to the mixture of these breeds.”
ling. Last June, he got Buddy’s brother, Bear,
Today, Goldendoodles and Labradoodles
and I got Spartan for my daughter’s first
have their own Facebook pages and en-
wedding anniversary.”
tire websites devoted to them and have spawned other mixes, such as roodles (a
birth of the doodle
rottweiler/poodle).
The first doodles were created in 1989 by
the family that doodles together
Wally Conran, who was working for the Royal
Lily Shin and friend Helen Duan, both of San
was allergic to dogs. Conran crossed a Lab,
Rafael, founded the Marin Doodle Romp four
a reliable guide dog, with a poodle, with its
years ago because the closest Goldendoodle
tightly curled coat, hoping to create an easily
organization chapter was located in San Jose.
trainable dog that would not shed too much.
Shin had just gotten Buddy, and Duan had
Three puppies were born, one of which proved
gotten Buddy’s sister, Ginger, and the women
Guide Dog Association of Australia. He was contacted by a blind woman whose husband
to be allergy free.
wanted to connect with other doodle owners.
Though Marin Pet Hospital’s Harris says
Both dogs came from Santa Rosa’s For God’s
dogs that don’t shed are a myth, most doo-
Glory Standard Poodles and Goldendoodles,
dle owners beg to differ. Some chose their
owned by Carina and Daniel Guillory, who
doodles primarily for that reason, and while
say that 60 percent of their Bay Area business
Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are not
comes from Marin County.
completely hypoallergenic, they do seem to
The Guillorys sell standard doodles (50 to
produce less dander. (First-generation doo-
85 pounds) for $2,000 and medium-size (25
dles usually shed more than a mix of first
to 50 pounds) at $2,500. The smaller dogs are
generation doodle bred to another poodle.)
pricier because they are bred through artificial
Mai-Liis Bartling of Novato, who recent-
insemination. In contrast, the Marin Humane
ly retired after a 31-year career with the
Society charges a $250 adoption fee for pup-
National Park Service, got her Labradoodle,
pies up to six months and $150 for a dog up
Harper, as a puppy. “Our whole family is al-
to 10 years old. (The Guillorys sell a pure-
lergic to cats and we hadn’t had a dog for a
bred, neutered and trained poodle for around
while because my son, who’s now 16, is al-
$900, and an American-style Golden Retriever
lergic to dogs. My husband researched online
for around $1,000.)
and when we saw a Labradoodle, we said,
Shin was so pleased with Buddy she
that’s what we want.”
bought two more doodles from the Guillorys
Bartling’s son is not allergic to Harper.
this year, one for her brother and one for her
“She sheds a little but nothing like our
daughter, who got married in 2009.
previous dog,” Bartling says. “No hair every-
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
59
low- to non-shedding dogs, but the trade-off is that they need regular grooming, especially if they have a long coat, which most people like the look of. It requires a lot of brushing at home and going to groomers every four to six weeks.” King of the Humane Society adds, “To have a dog that is like a Lab and doesn’t shed is great, but the problem is it doesn’t always work out that way all the time. There’s no guarantee that the mix will produce a dog
“All family came for [my daughter’s] wedding,” Shin says. “From Korea, Saudi Arabia, all over. And they met Buddy and went goo-goo gaga over him and wanted to steal him. They weren’t paying attention to the bride and groom at all.”
with the no-shedding of a poodle and the temperament of a Lab. It’s the new fashion. They have tons of energy. Labradoodles are very sweet and make good family dogs but only after age three because they can be very
where. If you comb it, a little bit will come out but it’s not the same as
scattered and destructive before that. People like their looks. It’s like
fur, it’s hair.”
dating a guy because he’s really cute. It doesn’t mean he’s going to be a
Kerry Bortel and her husband, attorney Aaron Bortel, got their big snowy-white doodle Spike several months ago because they “wanted an allergen-free dog.”
nice guy. But he’s cute. What you have to realize is you’re going to get the whole package.” Doodle owners don’t seem too worried.
“We used to have an Alaskan Malamute and when I put my face in
“I’ve had many dogs in my life but I have to say this is the best dog
its fur it really irritated me,” says Aaron. “This dog doesn’t bother me
I’ve ever had,” says Shin. “They are the most loyal, and gentle and
and it’s the most affectionate dog ever.”
smart, and they don’t shed and they’re not hyper. They’re just so cud-
“And it doesn’t shed, which I love,” says Kerry. “With our other dog
dly; as big as they are they want to spend all day on your lap kissing
I was vacuuming every day, and he died, and then we got Spike and
and hugging. They’re great with children, don’t bark and are easy to
all of a sudden I realized I had gone a week without vacuuming and
train. What more can you ask for?”
it was fine.”
shedding light Experts warn prospective owners that not all doodles are truly hypoallergenic. “Many have been showing up in shelters when their owners find out that they are allergic to them,” says Camp Canine’s Hrobsky. “I had more than one client ask me about their dog’s coat because they purchased it as a ‘hypoallergenic’ breed, but the dog shed,” says Hrobsky. “This was unfortunate as a number of dogs were re-homed or given to shelters because they weren’t what the owner had wanted.” Grooming is also a key factor in taking care of these dogs, says breeder Carina. “I feel there is a lot of misinformation about Goldendoodles being hypoallergenic and completely shed free, and that they are lowmaintenance dogs. It’s not true. I try to tell owners, yes, they’re very
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61
JOURNEY
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CALL of the
NOVEMBER 2010
CRIMEA
Yalta
M
a gic was in the air as the sun’s first rays reached the orthodox cathedral overlooking the tranquil
inner harbor below, refining its iconic onion domes into glittering golden orbs as we glided into the storied Crimean Black Sea port of Yalta. “Eureka, I have found it!” How else could a Californian celebrate his ar-
THREE STORIED PORTS ON THE BLACK SEA RIVIERA
rival at this Crimean treasure, which I had marveled at for years in books? The Crimea is a peninsula at the top of the Black Sea discovered by Greeks, inhabited by Scandinavian traders, conquered by Mongols, Turks and finally
S TO RY A N D P H OTO S BY D AV E B A R T R U F F
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63
by Catherine the Great of Russia. It served as the breadbasket of Russia and the former Soviet Union until 1992, when it gained independence and became a self-governing state of the Ukraine. Beginning with the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution, the Crimea was off-limits to
Bathers lazed
Western travelers through most of the 20th century. But now, after sail-
on the sands
ing 1,000 miles from Istanbul, we had reached our prize: the fabled Black Sea Riviera on the shores of the Crimean Peninsula. Yalta, found-
along the
ed by the Byzantines at a point equidistant between the equator and the North Pole, was the first of three Crimean treasures we would un-
waterfront as
cover. It was followed by calls at Sebastopol and Odessa.
loudspeakers
Considered the most glamorous resort on the Black Sea, Yalta was favored by Russian literary figures Chekhov, Pushkin and Gorky. Along
blared out
the waterfront promenade, a bronze monument of a lady with a dog in
Michael
her lap honors Chekhov’s famous 1899 short story “Lady with Lapdog.” We arrived in Yalta aboard the Seabourn Odyssey, which was also
Jackson hits.
celebrating its inaugural season of sailing in Black Sea waters. Stepping
Overseeing
out of the cruise terminal onto Roosevelt Street we certainly felt wel-
it all was an
come. Farther on, a stern, finger-pointing World War II–era depiction of Uncle Sam directed us ahead to a popular waterfront cafe.
imposing statue
Half an hour later, my companions and I entered the magnificent
of Lenin, now
seaside Livadia, or “the White Palace,” a health resort of Russia’s czars since 1861. Livadia gained even greater renown in 1945 as the venue
forced to gaze
of the Yalta Conference, where Allied leaders Roosevelt, Churchill and
on the triumph
Stalin met to coordinate the final defeat of Hitler’s Third Reich. We began our visit in the marble-colonnaded main conference hall
of a glitzy
of early Italian Renaissance style where the final accords were signed.
capitalism over
Then we inspected each of the Allied leaders’ private studies. Finally,
the austere
we were shown an intimate round table where the three men talked in private. By now I was tempted to plop right down in Stalin’s chair to
socialist state
cool my aching feet. But I didn’t. Upstairs, we were escorted into the Romanov apartments, where
he fashioned.
the czars’ families spent their summers. The visit concluded in the study of Nicholas II, the last Russian czar who, with his family, was
64
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NOVEMBER 2010
PREVIOUS SPREAD : Entering Yalta’s inner harbor; Costumed Kalinka folk musicians. OPPOSITE , CLOCKWISE FROM TOP : Yalta Riviera beach with Odyssey in port; St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral; statue of communism’s founder Lenin. THIS PAGE CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT : Intimate Yalta Conference round table for World War II Allied leaders; “Big Three”portrait of Churchill, Roosevelt and Stalin at Livadia Palace; portrait of family of Russian czar Nicholas II; private study of FDR in Livadia Palace.
abducted and assassinated by the Bolsheviks in 1917. A framed photograph, the last of the royal family, graced a wall. That familial image hung heavy over us as long after we left the room behind. Our palace visit ended at a high tea in its formal inner garden. Enhanced by the lively strings of the balalaika and the voices of Kalinka folk singers, the traditionally costumed performers invited the tea guests—all comrades by now—to dance arm in-arm with them around the courtyard’s gorgeous fountain. Returning to the ship, we saw bathers lazing on the sands along the waterfront and an amusement park in full swing as loudspeakers blared out Michael Jackson hits. Overseeing it all was an imposing statue of Lenin, now forced to gaze on the triumph of a glitzy capitalism over the austere socialist state he fashioned.
heroic English nurse Florence Nightingale founded the practice of modern nursing and Tennyson immortalized heroism in his classic poem
On to Sebastopol
“The Charge of the Light Brigade.” Our morning excursion took us into the countryside through the
An easy 90-mile night sail got us into port at Sebastopol early in the
Balaclava Valley of Tennyson renown to the last vestige of the Golden
morning. Formerly home to the Soviet Black Sea Fleet, Sebastopol now
Horde’s Mongolian Empire. Here at their capital, the Crimean khans
harbors both the Ukrainian and Russian navies. It was off-limits to for-
ruled from the 15th to 18th centuries.
eign visitors throughout the Soviet era.
We joined visitors, mostly from Eastern Europe and Russia, to tour
The city was destroyed during the Crimean War (1853-56) between
the khans’ magnificent palace and its suites, harem and mausoleum. In a
Russia and England, but on the bloody battlefields of the tragedy the
covered courtyard we encountered the legendary Fountain of Tears made
MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
65
famous by Alexander Pushkin. His poem “The Fountain of Bakhchysaray” was based on the grieving Khan Krim Girei, who built the fountain as a memorial to his late wife in 1764. Unfortunately, the same khan was aggrieved again when he was deposed by Catherine the Great of Russia 19 years later, thus ending the Mongolian Dynasty in the Crimea. We enjoyed being khans and harem girls ourselves, donning opulent oriental turbans, veils and robes, provided for a fee for picture taking. An outdoor market filled with Islamic arts and crafts provided more mementos. In the nearby hills, we climbed innumerable steps up to the eighth-century Uspensky Cave Monastery, to explore its ancient cave church and monks’ cells hewn out of rock. Throughout the 400-year Crimean khanate the cave complex served as the residence of the Metropolitan of the Russian Orthodox Church in Crimea. On our return to Sebastopol, we witnessed a spirited and exclusive performance of stirring Cossack and ethnic folk songs and patriotic naval songs by the Black Sea Navy Ensemble in the auditorium of the Naval Officers’ Club. At day’s end, just before sailing, I scampered up to the bluff overlooking the harbor to view the monument to Admiral Nakhimov, the Defender of Sebastopol during the CLOCKWISE : Purse with Islamic design;
open-air market at Khans’ Palace outside Sebastopol; street violinists on Odessa’s Potemkin Steps with statue of of city’s designer French architect, Duke de Richelieu. OPPOSITE : Odessa newlyweds being photographed at city hall; Port of Odessa, Black Sea’s largest, viewed from Seabourn Odyssey.
Crimean War. In the front lines with his men he paid the supreme price for his valor.
Oh, Odessa! On another bright morning, we arrived at Odessa, founded by the khan of Crimea in 1240. Its harbor, the largest on the Black Sea, held a fascinating collection of vessels, from a mega-yacht named Alla to a classic three-masted sailing ship, Amerigo Vespucci, that served as a training vessel for Italian naval cadets. From our berth, directly before us was a broad staircase from the water up to the
66
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city. This was the Potemkin Steps, where the seeds of the Communist Revolution were sown in 1905 when mutinous sailors from the Russian
IF YOU GO
battleship Potemkin joined in a workers’ rebellion. The event was immortalized in film by the Russian cinematic genius Sergei Eisenstein in
Summer is best for Black
his 1925 classic The Battleship Potemkin.
Sea Riviera travel. Arriving
I climbed all 157 steps to the top and to the feet of the statue of the
by sea is relaxing and
Duke de Richelieu, the French architect chosen by Catherine the Great
exhilarating. Small group
to build the city in French Renaissance style.
shore excursions and private
From there, I strolled along historic Primorsky Boulevard beneath
tour arrangements at ports
a canopy of century-old lime and chestnut trees. Glancing up, I saw a
of call afford “insider”
familiar figure on a balcony of the landmark Londonskaya Hotel. Of
access to many venues and
course, it was Vladimir Putin, Russia’s prime minister, attired in a smart
events unavailable to the
business suit. On second glance, I realized it was just a mannequin. But
independent traveler. Turkish
it shows exactly how the newly independent Ukraine still regards its
visas may be obtained on
bullying “big brother” even today.
entry at the Istanbul airport.
Farther on, I encountered the beautiful Viennese baroque-style Opera
In 2011 the Seabourn has two
House and its terraced gardens that dominate Odessa’s cultural center.
seven-day Black Sea sailings
Just across the street, stretch limousines were disgorging wedding par-
to Crimean ports from
ties in all their newly acquired capitalistic finery, surrounded by video
Istanbul: July 4 aboard its
crews and wedding photographers to record the newlyweds’ visit to
all-suite Odyssey and July 11
city hall to register their extravagant marital union.
on its brand-new twin sister,
The day ended with champagne and caviar in the opulent ambience of a 19th-century noble family residence followed by a violin concert in the Golden Hall of their palace. Then, before I knew it, we were at sea again, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, with a storehouse of treasured
Quest. Fares from $3,499 per person. Air additional.
seabourn.com
Crimean memories.
MARIN
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67
GO
Splash!
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NOVEMBER 2010
W I N T E R F A M I LY BEACH ESCAPES
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
1 IXTAPA
on my mind P H O T O S & T E X T B Y B E N D AV I D S O N
F
lanked by my nine-year-old daughter, Marisa, and my wife, Glenda, I was perched on the stern of the Picante, a 75-foot French-built catamaran. All of us were ready to plunge headfirst into the Pacific Ocean just off the coast of Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, Mexico. Moments earlier, we had seen a pod of dolphins
breaking the surface just yards away, a solitary sea turtle floating dreamily past, frigate birds soaring high overhead, and tiny flying fish skittering off the boat’s bow. As I dove into the warm, emeraldcolored water, I couldn’t help but think, does it get any sweeter than this? The half-day sail-and-snorkel excursion was one of many highlights during a four-day visit to Club Med Ixtapa Pacific. Our vacation had started a day earlier. Arriving at the modest Ixtapa/ Zihuatanejo airport after a day of traveling on Mexicana Airlines from San Francisco via Mexico City, we were greeted by a team of “GOs,” Club Med’s famous gentils organisateurs. These cheery young people from all points of the globe serve as ubiquitous hosts, activity guides, tennis, sailing and trapeze (yes, trapeze) instructors for resort guests. As the rest of our shuttle-mates gathered, including a French-Canadian family, several Mexican families, and Northern Californians from Los Gatos and San Francisco, we were quickly welcomed into Club Med’s all-inclusive system with clear plastic wristbands—our precious tickets to unlimited fun, food and
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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NOVEMBER 2010
69
drinks during our stay. I strapped on my Live It Up (sorry, Lance) wristband eagerly with Yaquiworthy visions of margaritas and guacamole dancing in my head. Club Med Ixtapa Pacific is one of 23 Club Meds designed exclusively for families and was named one of the world’s 10 best family beach resorts by Parents magazine in 2010. The recently remodeled 300-room resort is spread over 30 acres on the sandy shore of Playa Quieta (“quiet beach”) on the southern half of Ixtapa Bay between the Capella and Melia Azul resorts. Just offshore, beyond a small reef break between two rock outcrops, lies unspoiled Ixtapa Island, lending a tropical note to the serene setting. As with all 80-plus Club Med resorts worldwide, this one offers just about everything for its guests—especially those who want to get whisked away for a carefree, activity-filled vacation without pesos or dolares or any other currency in sight. Besides the all-inclusive concept, what intrigued me was the abundance of activities geared to kids and families: archery, tennis, kayaking, sailing, soccer, table tennis, pool games, beach volleyball, even nightly theatrical performances featuring younger guests. Several hacienda-style buildings dot the length of the property, with options ranging from basic “club” rooms to luxury ocean-view suites complete with personal concierge and private roped-off beach. Our deluxe suite be-
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MARINMAGAZINE.COM
came my cool haven, offering escape from the unfamiliar summer humidity plus a host of
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creature comforts: a walk-in shower with three oversize showerheads, a wonderful tiled tub, two flat-screen TVs and a spacious sitting room adjacent to the bedroom. Two sliding doors opened to the roped-off private beach featuring recliners and palapas, with watchful, white-clad security officers discreetly viewing the goingson at the public-access beach. The luxury suites also came with Internet access (great for Skype calls home), a concierge office (with appetizers and a fridge full of cold drinks), and the option
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For fitness buffs there are “yogalates” and “zumba” in a breezy outdoor palapa, power walking, archery, trapeze lessons, a huge pool, “cardio splash” sessions, and tennis. Salsa dance lessons, culinary classes and deluxe spa treatments are also available, and bar beverages include tropical drinks and draft beer (all drinks,
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except premium brands and bottled beer, are gratis with the magic wristband). Peace-seeking adults can find some alone time at two romantic oceanside restaurants, a spa operated by Italy-based ComfortZone and a secluded “quiet” pool, as well as those private beaches if they’re staying in the deluxe suites. Guests hankering to see the outside world can take a short walk to nearby scenic Playa Linda, which has good body-boarding waves and ferries ($5 each way) to Ixtapa Island, where visitors can enjoy snorkeling, island-side lunches or even ocean-side massage. The resort’s Discovery Center can also arrange excursions like the Picante catamaran ride, muddy ATV trips, and swimming-with-dolphins at a complex called Delfinity in Ixtapa. Taxis are available for day trips into Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo. Having never stayed at an all-inclusive resort, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of food, the automony we enjoyed and the flexible approach to activities. Returning home, we felt we’d truly gotten the most out of each day—and didn’t have to worry about any “surprises” on the Visa bill.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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2 Seaside, stateside B Y M . L . L AT H A N No need to cross the border for an escape; these renovated resorts are great for family getaways.
CALIFORNIA PEBBLE BEACH RESORTS While a wild, win-
mattresses and high-tech comforts like free wire-
CLIFFS RESORT Miles and miles of wild
try beach fronts the property, golf is the main
less Internet, 32-inch flat-screen TVs (37-inch in
beaches front the newly remodeled (to the
draw at Pebble Beach Resorts and has been for
suites) and Samsung DVD players. The Pebble
tune of $3 million) Cliffs Resort in Pismo
decades. For families who like to tee-up together,
Beach Golf Links, which hosted the U.S. Open
Beach. Ideal for a budget-minded fami-
this winter there’s an enticing Stay & Play pack-
in June 2010, were spruced up for the occasion;
ly getaway, rooms here start at $89 a night.
age that includes two nights at either The Lodge
resulting upgrades include enlarged greens, new
Renovations include improvements to the
at Pebble Beach or The Inn at Spanish Bay, two
championship tee boxes and additional fairway
oceanfront swimming pool, restaurant and all
rounds of championship golf (the usual fee for
bunkers. The Stay & Play offering, available
guest rooms. Besides long stretches of sand,
one round is $495 a person) and a $200 resort
November 21, 2010 to March 31, 2011, starts
Pismo also offers golf courses, 80 nearby win-
credit per person. Among the extensive room ren-
at $1,825 for a single player and $2,500 for a
eries; Hummer (yep, the car) rides through
ovations here are new bedding, high-end Serta
double player package. pebblebeach.com
extensive sand dunes and kayaking. Kids of
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all ages are fascinated by abundant seashore
“dive-in” movies to making s’mores around the
wildlife including whales, dolphins, seals and
fire pits. Oh, and for Mom and Dad, $5 million
otters. Pismo Beach is also a short drive from
of those upgrades went into the 7,500-square-
Hearst Castle, a gotta-go-once California desti-
foot Spa Brezza. hilton.com/sandiegoresort
nation. cliffsresort.com CRYSTAL COVE Thanks to a unique partTHE HILTON SAN DIEGO RESORT & SPA
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Situated on San Diego’s famous Mission Bay
Orange County, Crystal Cove Alliance and the
just minutes from the airport, the recently ren-
California state parks, the renovated pictur-
ovated Hilton San Diego Resort & Spa is con-
esque and historically accurate Crystal Cove
veniently located one mile from Sea World and
cottages will include more rental units available
near the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, Historic
to the public as well as two more public rest-
Old Town and Legoland—all great kid desti-
room facilities. Located right onshore between
nations. Besides the Hilton’s five-star service,
Newport and Laguna beaches, “Crystal Cove
guests can enjoy tennis courts, wakeboarding,
is a rare opportunity to experience the archi-
sailing, biking or just splashing around the
tecture of the 1930s through the 1950s,” says
pool. There’s a special pool for ages three and
Laura Davick, the alliance’s founder and presi-
under; a Kids Kamp featuring arts and crafts,
dent emeritus. “And winter is my favorite time
swimming, beach games, face painting, sand
to visit: even though we are usually at capac-
castle building and more; and a slew of resort
ity for the rentals, there are far fewer tourists,
activities for the entire family, from poolside
leaving the beach and grounds for the cottage
Suddenly, it’s more than just a vacation.
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NOVEMBER 2010
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guests to enjoy.” Besides miles of beachcomb-
beach fronting the resort with boogie boards,
Just across the street from the 700-plus-
ing, body surfing and boogie-boarding, fami-
snorkeling and stand-up paddleboards available
room resort is its recently completed Ho’olei
lies can enjoy the fun zone and rides of nearby
to rent. fairmont.com
at Grand Wailea, a collection of luxury town homes designed for families desiring larger
Balboa Peninsula, shopping in Laguna Beach or even a visit to Disneyland, 45 minutes away.
GRAND WAILEA While “the Grand,” as it’s
communal configurations. These 120 three-bed-
Open year-round; reservations are first-come
been called since opening in the early ’90s, has
room units have sweeping ocean views, gour-
first-served. crystalcovealliance.org
attracted adults for two decades, its gravitation-
met kitchens, large great rooms with flat-screen
al pull on the tween-and-under set is equally
TVs and video games along with full concierge
legendary. Just guessing, but perhaps it’s the
service, 24-hour shuttle to the main resort, and
pool. Stretching for 2,000 feet through a series
private pool area with a sandy beach entry.
HAWAII FAIRMONT KEA LANI After a few months of
of nine freeform areas, beginning at 40 feet and
But wait, there’s more: Spa Grande, part-
subtle final touches (the jackhammers were
dropping to sea level, the pool here rocks, liter-
nering with organic salt company Hawai‘i Kai,
gone by September), the Fairmont Kea Lani is
ally. Officially called Wailea Canyon and made
recently added a bath treatment series in which
ready to show off its updated new rooms, pub-
of faux lava, it’s all connected by a “river” that
freshly harvested premium Hawaiian sea salt
lic spaces and most of all new pool area with
carries swimmers along at varying speeds, from
is blended with indigenous minerals, herbs
decks made of quartzite, a material chosen for
lazy currents to whitewater rapids. There are
and other elements to epitomize the personal-
beauty, durability and safe high-traction surface.
seven tile slides, a whitewater rapids slide, a
ity of each island. The Hawai‘i bath, a blend of
Families have loved the place for decades be-
Tarzan pool with rope swing, the world’s only
Kilauea black sea salt and organic kava powder
cause of the suite-style rooms and large grassy
water elevator, a sand beach, six waterfalls,
with scents of vanilla orchid and essential oils
areas between the pools and common areas.
caves, three Jacuzzis, an infant pool and (of
of rosewood, cinnamon and petitgrain, is said
And, of course, there’s that seemingly private
course) a swim-up beverage bar.
to stimulate the circulation and promote a feel-
Do your own detective work…finding Maui’s best sights and activities. Book Aston Kaanapali Shores and discover beachfront condominium resort living, full kitchens, separate bedroom and living areas, and private lanais. Poolside restaurant, fitness center and on-site children’s program. For Maui fun, the case is solved.
Aston Kaanapali Shores fall savings Save 30% Off Discount is applied off published standard rate and is reflected in Best Daily Rate. Valid for travel through 12/21/10. Rates subject to change and based on availability. Restrictions may apply.
866.774.2924 AstonHotels.com
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Part of the Aston Condominium Resort Collection
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
ing of balance. The Maui bath, Wailea white
sence, and essential oils of
sea salt and niu (coconut) oil blended with es-
orange, lavender, and clary
sential oils of eucalyptus, rosemary and ylang
sage, intended to soothe
ylang, aims to stimulate the immune system,
and regenerate cells, tone
oxygenate and hydrate the skin, alleviate men-
the skin, reduce anxiety
tal exhaustion, calm nervous tension and ease
and even serve as an aph-
arthritis and the effects of overindulgence.
rodisiac. grandwailea.com
The Lanai bath, a blend of crystal pink sea salt containing volcanic clay plus extract of pine-
K A H A L A H OT E L A N D
apple, organic green papaya powder, and es-
R E S O RT This longtime
sential oils of lemongrass and mandarin, has
posh destination (formerly
plant enzymes that help exfoliate and renew
dubbed “Ka-hollywood”)
erty is fronted by an 800-foot stretch of white
the skin. The Oahu bath, with bamboo green
has just added yet another layer of luxury,
sand, daytime possibilities include swimming to
sea salt, Hawaiian spirulina, organic seaweed
with new signature suites ranging from super-
a tiny island in the middle of the bay; testing
powder and essential oils of lime and grape-
comfortable to over the top. The 2,200-sqare-
out the single and double kayaks, snorkel gear,
fruit, contains phytonutrients and enzymes
foot Imperial and Presidential suites both have
stand-up paddleboards and boogie boards; and
with antioxidant qualities for tightening the
lanais with vistas that sweep from Diamond
activities like the Dolphin Quest, wherein kids
skin, minimizing cellulite, detoxifying the body
Head to Koko Head. The Kahala Kai and Kahala
and adults can interact with playful Atlantic bot-
and reducing fluid retention. The Kaua‘i bath
Beach suites are on the beach and ideal for a
tlenose dolphins in the hotel’s 26,000-square-
has red sea salt bonded with clay and infused
family getaway. To make sure the keikis sleep
foot natural lagoon. For land lovers, tennis and
with organic passion flower powder, guava es-
well at night, there is a lot to do. As the prop-
golf are available. kahalaresort.com
Experience renewal in Hawai‘i. Awaken your senses and recharge your spirit. Lose yourself in the endless comforts and luxuries of Westin Hotels & Resorts in Hawai‘i. Welcome to a place of discovery and relaxation. Where you can be at your best and experience a unique transformation. Sunsational Savings* • 3rd night free • Free daily breakfast for two • Complimentary upgrade For more information or to make a reservation, please visit westinhotelshawaii.com or call 1.866.716.8112 KAUA‘I: The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas MAUI: The Westin Maui Resort & Spa The Westin Ka‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas O‘AHU: Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
* Offer subject to availability and blackout dates. Other restrictions may apply and are subject to change without notice. The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas offers a $50 dining credit per day in lieu of free daily breakfast.
AWST-19660_7-0625x4-625_V3.indd 1 MARINMAGAZINE.COM
2/19/10 10:29:19 AM MARIN
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Local • Seasonal • Sustainable
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DETAILS OF PARTICIPATION: This offer is sponsored by Marriott Vacation Club as part of an advertising plan for its vacation ownership program. Eligibility: Annual income of $100,000 or more and ownership of a primary residence is required. Employees of Marriott International Inc., its affiliated and subsidiary companies, and their immediate families, and Marriott Vacation Club owners are ineligible for the offer. Guests may not purchase this preview package if having attended another Marriott Vacation Club sales presentation within the past 12 months. Guests are limited to purchasing 3 preview packages within a lifetime and may not travel to the same resort on a preview package more than once. Guests may not have more than 1 active package at a time. Presentation: Attendance at a timeshare sales presentation lasting approximately 90 minutes is required. If married or living together, couples must attend the sales presentation together to receive this offer; individuals may purchase separately. Failure to attend sales presentation will result in an additional charge of up to the full seasonal retail value of the accommodations. Offer: This is an advance purchase package. Purchase price and deposit are not refundable. Package purchase must be made with a major credit card. Not valid in conjunction with any other promotion. Not transferable. One offer per family or household. Offer subject to change without notice. Accommodations will be at Marriott’s Kauai Beach Club or Kauai Marriott Resort in a hotel-type room for a maximum of two (2) adults. Alternate accommodations of comparable value may be used if necessary. Airfare, transportation, parking, additional expenses and applicable taxes, if any, are not included with this offer. Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons offers have a retail value of $479 per night ($2,395 for 5 nights). This offer expires November 30, 2011. Offer subject to change without notice. Travel must be completed within 18 months of package purchase. Room Reservation: We strongly encourage you to make your reservations with Marriott before purchasing airfare. A credit card is required at check-in. Reservation must be made at least 60 days in advance and is subject to availability. Upgrades may be purchased at time of travel date reservation and are subject to availability. A written confirmation for your reservation is required. In the event of cancellation or if you have any changes to your reservation, you must notify us at least 30 days prior to your arrival or you will be charged a $75 cancellation/change fee. No-shows will forfeit package and package price. A surcharge up to $100 may apply during holiday and special event periods. Marriott Ownership Resorts Inc. is the developer, an equal opportunity credit lender and a subsidiary of Marriott International Inc. A fact sheet on facilities, including association assessments, is available upon request. Marriott’s Kauai Lagoons, 3351 Hoolaulea Way, Suite 201, Lihue, Kauai, Hawaii, 96766.
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CAL E N DA R
NOVEMBER ARTS & EVENTS GUIDE
Cavalia, horses and performers come together at AT&T park November 16–December 12
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THEATER Thru November 7 9 Circles The story of a young American soldier on trial for his life is based on true events. Written by Equivocation playwright Bill Cain. Marin Theatre Company (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org Thru November 14 Dead Man’s Wake The world premiere of a new play by San Geronimo resident Larry Klein. West End Studio Theater (San Rafael). 415.453.0552, westcoastarts.org Thru November 21 Marcus or The Secret of Sweet The finale of the West Coast premiere productions of Tarell Alvin McCraney’s internationally acclaimed trilogy The Brother/Sister Plays is presented in partnership with Marin Theatre Company and Magic Theatre. American Conservatory Theater (SF). 415.749.2228, act-sf.org Thru November 21 The Pirates of Penzance The classic comedy by Gilbert and Sullivan is directed by Carl Jordon. Company Playhouse (Novato). 415.883.4498, novatotheatercompany.org Thru November 28 West Side Story A new production of the classic musical directed by its legendary librettist, Tony Award winner Arthur Laurents. Orpheum Theatre (SF). 888.746.1799, shnsf.com 3–21 Murder for Two: A Killer Musical The West Coast premiere of this two-man murder mystery. One plays the inspector; the other plays all the suspects and they both play the piano. Eureka Theatre (SF). 415.255.8207, 42ndstmoon.org
‘Twas in the Moon of Wintertime ...
HOLIDAY CONCERTS BY CANDLELIGHT Marin Symphony Chamber Chorus and Orchestra Stephen McKersie, conductor Saturday, December 4, 2010 at 7:30pm and Sunday, December 5, 2010 at 4pm Church of Saint Raphael 1104 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael. A Marin Favorite for decades – discover why. What could be more festive than the sounds of harp, oboe, lutes, classical guitars and handbells? Bask in the glow of your hand-held candle and experience the special warmth of friends, family and community joining in celebration and song. Open seating. Tickets $25 (pre-order online or at 415.479.8100); $30 at the door.
www.marinsymphony.org
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11–December 5 Happy Now? Jasson Minadakis directs this new comedy by British playwright Lucinda Coxon. Boyer Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.388.5208, marintheatre.org
12–December 12 Pride and Prejudice Elizabeth Bennet must find a husband among unsuitable suitors in this Jane Austen story. Barn Theatre (Ross). 415.456.9555, rossvalleyplayers.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Concerts made possible by Fireman’s Fund Insurance Co. and Marin Pacific Co. Inc. Candlelight portion sponsored by Wells Fargo.
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16–December 12 Cavalia More than 100 performers and more than 50 horses come together to create a unique show celebrating the bond between animal and human. White big top/AT&T Park (SF). cavalia.net
COMEDY Tuesdays Mark Pitta and Friends The comic hosts an evening for up-and-comers and established headliners to work on new material. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com
MUSIC The popular singer/songwriter hosts; public address system and piano are provided. Masonic Lodge (Mill Valley). 415.389.6637, woodsmv.com
Tuesdays Swing Fever The band pays tribute to jazz artists and composers, playing selections from its roster of over
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Thru December 5 Aida For the first time in nearly a decade this bitter tale of love during wartime returns to San Francisco. The story focuses on a bitter love triangle set during a time of war. War Memorial Opera House (SF). 415.864.3330, sfopera.com 7 Barbershop Harmony Concert The a cappella singing of the Golden Gate Chorus is showcased in this 56th annual show. Showcase Theater (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, drumline.com
NOVEMBER 2010
11–13 S.F. Symphony Eclectic popster Rufus Wainwright joins the symphony as the featured vocalist for the world premiere of his Five Shakespeare Sonnets. Justin Davies Symphony Hall (SF). 415.864.6000, sfsymphony.org 12–14 Mill Valley Philharmonic Pieces from Mozart and Brahms are performed at the season opener. Various Marin locations. 415.383.8013, millvalleyphilharmonic.org 14 Sexy Sunday A musicians’ showcase featuring female artists who rock. Peri’s Silver Dollar (Fairfax). 415.459.9910, krickie.com
annual recital includes work from Bach, Brahms, Schumann, Hindemith, Vaughan Williams and more. 142 Throckmorton Theatre (Mill Valley). 415.383.9600, 142throckmortontheatre.com
14, 16 Marin Symphony The evening features a world premiere by composer Avner Dorman and Marin Symphony’s principal violist, Jenny Douglass, performs one of the most difficult works in the entire viola repertoire. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.479.8100, marinsymphony.org
7 Guest Concert Series The series continues with the popular Tilden Trio. Dominican University of California (San Rafael). 415.257.0128, dominican.edu
20 The Sun Kings The Bay Area’s favorite Beatles tribute band will sing you a song. Palm Ballroom (San Rafael). 415.389.5072, murphyproductions.com
7 Throckmorton Chamber Players This
Mondays Open Mic with Austin de Lone
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1,000 tunes. Panama Hotel (San Rafael). 415.457.3993, panamahotel.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
21 Nakamatsu Duo Pianist Jon Nakamatsu and clarinetist Jon Manasse play selections from Brahms, Mendelssohn and more. Mt. Tam Methodist Church (Mill Valley). 800.838.3006, chambermusicmillvalley.org
26-27 Dark Star Orchestra Experience a complete Grateful Dead concert faithfully reproduced. The Regency Ballroom (SF). 800.745.3000, theregencyballroom.com
GALLERIES MARIN Art Abloom Studio and Gallery Artwork and classes. 1527 San Anselmo Ave, San Anselmo. 415.256.1112, artabloom.com Art Bar Molinar Work from artists based in California, New York and Italy. 34 Main St, Tiburon. 415.435.5999, theartbar.us Art Works Downtown New Avenues Work by artists embracing digital technology, thru November 12. 1337 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.451.8119, artworksdowntown.org
Barefoot Art Gallery Sculptures by Mary Tuthil Lindheim and paintings by Roy Gover. 20 Sunnyside Ave, Mill Valley. 415.384.0104, barefootartgallery.com
Gallery Bergelli Solo exhibition by artist Mario Gomez, thru November 25. 483 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.945.9454, bergelli.com
Bay Model BayWood Artists Paint Marin A benefit for the Open Space District and Trust, thru November 20. 2100 Bridgeway, Sausalito. 415.332.3870, baywoodartists.com
Gallery Route One Placed Work by lifelong Inverness resident Tim Graveson, thru December 5. 11101 Hwy One, Point Reyes Station. 415.663.1347, galleryrouteone.org
Claudia Chapline Gallery Contemporary art from Northern California at this seaside gallery. 3445 Shoreline Hwy, Stinson Beach. 415.868.2308, cchapline.com Donna Seager Gallery Paintings from Helen Stanley, thru November 20. Also, a special literary event, The Marriage of Image and Text, takes place November 5. 851 Fourth St, San Rafael. 415.454.4229, donnaseagergallery.com Gallery 111 Work from members of a large, vibrant and diverse community of artists. Experience local art at its best. 480 Gate Five Road (Sausalito). 415.331.2222, icbartists.com
Marin Arts Council Nurturing the Creative Spark Work by members of the Marin/ Golden Gate National League of American Pen Women, thru January 23. 10 Avenue of the Flags, San Rafael. 415.666.2442, marinarts.org Marin Civic Center Drawing From Line to Shadow An exhibit on the art of drawing featuring 13 local artists presented by the Marin Arts Council, thru January 7. 3501 Civic Center Dr, San Rafael. 415.666.2442, marinarts.org Marin Society of Artists Fine arts show, thru November 14. 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross. 415.454.9561, marinsocietyofartists.org
Mario Gomez Memories of the Infinite October 22 - November 25, 2010
Mario Gomez, La Obediencia De La Razón, oil on canvas, 37x53 inches, 2010
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MARIN SYMPHONY
Marin Symphony The evening features a world premiere by composer Avner Dorman and Marin Symphony’s principal violist, Jenny Douglass, performs one of the most difficult works in the entire viola repertoire. November 14, 16. Marin Center (San Rafael). 415.479.8100, marinsymphony.org
INTRODUCING PRIMA MEDICAL FOUNDATION: OVER 45 GREAT DOCTORS AND COUNTING.
Greenbrae (OB/GYN) 1260 South Eliseo Drive, Floor 2 Phone: 415-461-7800 Greenbrae (Cancer Care) 1350 South Eliseo Drive, Suite 210 Phone: 415-925-5035 Larkspur (OB/GYN) 5 Bon Air Road, Suite 117 Phone: 415-924-9770 Mill Valley (Pediatrics) 655 Redwood Highway, Suite 216 Phone: 415-383-3500
Novato I (Primary Care) 165 Rowland Way, Suite 311 Phone: 415-897-9664
Sonoma (General Surgery) 347 Andrieux Street Phone: 707-935-5169
Novato II (Primary Care) 165 Rowland Way, Suite 301 Phone: 415-897-4741
Sonoma (Orthopedic Surgery) 357 Perkins Street Phone: 707-935-5607
Novato (OB/GYN) 165 Rowland Way, Suite 207 Phone: 415-461-7800
Terra Linda (Primary Care) 4000 Civic Center Drive, Suite 200 Phone: 415-492-3333
Sausalito (Primary Care) 3 Harbor Drive, Suite 111 Phone: 415-683-2988
PH OTO: AL ASDAIR NE ALE BY ALAN D EPP
Greenbrae (Primary Care/ Critical Care/Pulmonology/Dermatology) 100 A Drakes Landing Road, Suite 225 Phone: 415-924-1214
Sonoma (Primary Care) 181 Andrieux Street, Suite 201 Phone: 707-938-3870
For more information or to find a doctor, call one of our offices or visit www.primamedgroup.com.
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Mona Lease Gallery Fall Fashionings Fine art from multiple artists, thru December 23. 39 Greenbrae Boardwalk, Greenbrae. 415.461.3718, monalease.net
Robert Green Fine Arts New paintings by Charlotte Bernström, thru November 7. 154 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.381.8776, rgfinearts.com
Northbay ArtWorks Attend a classical figure-drawing workshop with professor Diana Belenky, November 14 and 21. 7049 Redwood Blvd, Ste 208, Novato. 415.892.8188, northbayartworks.com
Sam the Butcher New paintings from Sausalito artist Deborah Bertola. 19 Ross Common, Ross. 415.902.1019, samthebutcherart.org
O’Hanlon Center for the Arts Benefit for O’Hanlon: A Very Special Evening with Anna Halprin The evening features dance and an interview with Halprin, November 11. 616 Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.388.4331, ohanloncenter.org Robert Allen Fine Art Abstract Works on Canvas and Paper A group show featuring 11 artists, thru November 30. 301 Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.2800, robertallenfineart.com Robert Beck Gallery Early California and contemporary plein air paintings on display. 222 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, San Anselmo. 415.456.7898, beckgallery.org
Smith Andersen North The Golden Decade Work in photography, thru November 15. 20 Greenfield Ave, San Anselmo. 415.455.9733, smithandersennorth.com Studio 333 “Why There Are Words,” literary series on the second Thursday of the month; “Sunset Poetry by the Bay” every third Wednesday. 333A Caledonia St, Sausalito. 415.331.8272, studio333.info Studio 4 Art Work by local artists at this gallery and workshop offering materials and classes. 1133 Grant Ave, Novato. 415.596.5546, studio4art.net Sujaro: Gallery of African Art A large collection of antique and ancient artifacts. 11
Throckmorton Ave, Mill Valley. 415.362.6601, sujaro.com The Galleria Color Freedom Form Work from Darcy J. Sears, Ellen Levine Dodd and Frederick Doar. 135 Tunstead Ave, San Anselmo. 415.651.4017, stylecremeanglaise.com The Image Flow Photography by local artists. 401 Miller Ave, Ste F, Mill Valley. 415.388.3569, theimageflow.com The Painters Place Local Land Work from Novato artists Christin Coy and Richard Lindenberg, November 5–December 31. 1139 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur. 415.461.0351, thepaintersplace.com Tomales Fine Art Contemporary art including landscapes, classic still lifes and figurative work. 27050 Maine St, Tomales. 707.878.2525, tomalesfineart.com
SAN FRANCISCO ArtHaus The Painter Work from Franc d’Ambrosio, the actor who served as the
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longest-running lead in Phantom of the Opera, thru December 23. 411 Brannan St, 415.977.0223, arthaus-sf.com Berggruen Gallery Field at Hollow Road Work by Isca Greenfield Sanders, thru December 4. 228 Grant Ave, 415.781.4629, berggruen.com Cain Schulte Gallery Magna Carta: Art/ Paper Work from numerous artists who work with and on paper, November 17–January 15. 251 Post St, 415.543.1550, cainschulte.com Caldwell Snyder Gallery Work from Enrique Santana. 341 Sutter St, 415.296.7896, caldwellsnyder.com Elins Eagles-Smith Gallery Paintings from Ricardo Mazal. 49 Geary St, 415.981.1080, eesgallery.com Gallery 291 Images from Beth Moon featuring two new bodies of work. 291 Geary St, 415.291.9001, gallery291.net George Krevsky Gallery Itinerant Regionalist Work from Helen Berggruen, thru November 20. 77 Geary St, 415.397.9748, georgekrevskygallery.com
2010
EVO EVENT of the YEAR! WE GIVE THANKS TO ALL WE LOVE.
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Gregory Lind Gallery Narwhellian Work by Seth Koen, thru December 11. 49 Geary St, 415.296.9661, gregorylindgallery.com Josh Hardy Galleries Early California and American fine art on display. 3350 Sacramento St, 415.345.1832, hardygalleries.com Meyerovich Gallery Classic Symbols: Hearts, Robes & Venuses Work by Jim Dine, thru November 27. 251 Post St, 415.421.7171, meyerovich.com
Client Appreciation Day! Everyone welcome FREE demos, door prizes, juices, skincare vendors and more. Join us to discover all the goodness & wellness we have to offer.
Officers’ Club Intersections 5: Colors, Concepts, Contours More than 35 artists are represented at this biennial show presented by fiber/DIMENSIONS, thru December 19. Presidio of S.F. Officers’ Club, 50 Moraga Ave, 415.499.1655, fiberdimensions.com
Tuesday, Nov. 16, 2PM - 6PM spectacular discounts apply Nov. 16-23 go to www.evo-spa.com for details 415.383.3223
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Paul Mahder Gallery Window to My Dreams Work by Nikolai Atanassov, thru November 6. 3378 Sacramento St, 415.474.7707, paulmahdergallery.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Rena Bransten Gallery Paintings by Linda Geary. 77 Geary St, 415.982.3292, renabranstengallery.com Weinstein Gallery Paintings by Jimmy Ernst, thru December 31. 301 Geary St, 415.362.8151, weinstein.com
MUSEUMS MARIN Bay Area Discovery Museum Rock ’n’ Roll Fantasy The Brian Waite Band puts on an outrageous rock concert at the legendary Madison Square kinderGarten, November 6 (Sausalito). 415.339.3958, baykidsmuseum.org Bolinas Museum Ken Botto retrospective in the main gallery, thru November 14 (Bolinas). 415.868.0330, bolinasmuseum.org Falkirk Cultural Center See examples of painting, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, photography, ceramics and mixed media at the first Falkirk juried exhibition, thru November 20 (San Rafael). 415.485.3438, falkirkculturalcenter.org Marin History Museum Currently on display is the new exhibit Ranching and Rockin’ at Olompali, thru December (Boyd Gate House). 415.454.8538, marinhistory.org Marin Museum of Contemporary Art Legends of the Bay Area Work by William Wiley, Richard Shaw and Cornelia Schulz, thru November 21 (Novato). 415.506.0137, marinmoca.com Marin Museum of the American Indian Hupa People 1950s Photography from Ernest Marshall capturing the Hupa people of Northern California, thru December (Novato). 415.897.4064, marinindian.com
BAY AREA Asian Art Museum Beyond Golden Clouds: Five Centuries of Japanese Screens Considered high art in Japan, Japanese folding screens have inspired generations of artists to create some of their best work. See 41 large-scale examples from the Art Institute of Chicago and St. Louis Art MARINMAGAZINE.COM
December 11 and December 12, 2010 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm Marin Veterans’ Memorial Auditorium Tickets: Marin Center Box Office: 415.499.6800 Ticketmaster: 415.421.8497
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WINTER READING
Courage and Croissants: Inspiring Joyful Living, a Story and Life Guidebook by Suzanne Saxe-Roux and Jean P. Roux, St.
Remy Press, $14.95 (paperback). Think it can’t be done? Think again. Tiburon authors Suzanne and Jean abandoned their hectic careers and headed to France—with their young daughter—to reset and recharge their lives.
Spiritual Envy: An Agnostic’s Quest by Michael Krasny, New
Mamalita, An Adoption Memoir by Jessica O’Dwyer, Seal
World Library, $22.95. An intensely personal tour de force by the Marin resident and San Francisco State English professor who hosts KQED’s Forum. Covers the phenomenon of coincidences, the Ten Commandments, Bertrand Russell and, obviously, the existence or nonexistence of God.
Press, $16.95 (paperback). Facing a childless future, this Tiburon author chose to adopt a Guatemalan infant and bring her to Marin, a task that proved, in one reviewer’s words, “harrowing, heartbreaking and inspiring.” Regardless of age or intent, this is a riveting read.
Museum, thru January 16 (SF). 415.581.3500, asianart.org California Academy of Sciences Life: A Cosmic Story Planetarium Show This new show narrated by Jodie Foster illustrates how all life on Earth shares a common ancestry and reveals two scenarios for the dawn of life on a young planet; begins November 6 (SF). 415.379.8000, calacademy.org Conservatory of Flowers Tropics, Treasures and Trains The conservatory’s third annual gala offers a great evening and a chance to support this unique living museum, November 18. Also annual Garden Railway Exhibition is back, November 19–March 13 (SF). 415.831.2090, conservatoryofflowers.org Contemporary Jewish Museum Curious George Saves the Day: The Art of Margret and H. A. Rey The exhibition features nearly 80 original drawings of the famous monkey and other characters as well as a look at the Reys’ escape from Nazi Europe. Rediscover a classic and iconic children’s character, November 14–March 13 (SF). 415.655.7800, thecjm.org 86
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BY J I M W O O D
de Young Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cézanne and Beyond: Post-Impressionist Masterpieces from the Musée d’Orsay Cézanne, Gauguin, Toulouse-Lautrec, Van Gogh, Monet and Renoir are among the artists featured in the second part of the Musée d’Orsay exhibit, thru January 18 (SF). 415.750.3600, thinker.org di Rosa Preserve Know the Rules—Then Break Them A selection of photographic works from the di Rosa collection, curated by Doreen Schmid, reflecting the evolution of photography, thru January 29 (Napa). 707.226.5991, dirosapreserve.org Exploratorium Learn about science and how the world works with hands-on exhibits and demonstrations (SF). 415.397.5673, exploratorium.edu Legion of Honor Japanesque: The Japanese Print in the Era of Impressionism Trace the development of Japanese print for two centuries and learn about its influence on Western art during the era of Impressionism, thru January 9 (SF). 415.750.3600, legionofhonor.org
Aftershock: The Next Economy and America’s Future by Robert Reich, Knopf, $25.00. In his
192-page book, the former Secretary of Labor and current Berkeley professor posits that the 2008 economic meltdown was a response to wealth concentrating at the top. Also, that the future is perilous and depends on our rebuilding a middle class.
San Francisco Museum of Craft and Folk Art Volver: Mexican Folk Art into Play Works from Adrian Esparza, Maximo Gonzalez, Armando Miguelez, Favianna Rodriguez, Eduardo Sarabia and more, thru January 16 (SF). 415.227.4888, mocfa.org SFMOMA The Modern Century An innovative artist, trailblazing photojournalist and quintessential world traveler, Henri Cartier-Bresson and his photographic work helped defined the century, thru January 30 (SF). 415.357.4000, sfmoma.org Yerba Buena Center for the Arts Audience As Subject, Part 1: Medium The audience becomes the subject of the art in this rolereversing exhibit, thru February 6 (SF). 415.978.2787, ybca.org
EVENTS Saturdays Italian Film Festival The best of Italian cinema every Saturday at this annual festival though November 13. Showcase Theater (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, italianfilm.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Sundays Knitting Group Join the Mill Valley Unity (EweKnitty) group and learn knitting tips and tricks. Starbucks on Camino Alto (Mill Valley). ravelry.com 2 Speak to Me Enjoy food and wine tastings while listening to the thoughts of successful Bay Area women. Community Center (Mill Valley). 415.888.2329, speaktomeevents.com
6 Sample Sale Stop by Marin Country Mart for deals on hundreds of products from local producers at this Marin Store one-dayonly event. Marin Country Mart (Larkspur). 415.332.4800, themarinstore.com 6 Can’t Stop the Beat Enjoy champagne, a buffet, auctions and a cabaret show all benefiting Mountain Play’s 2011 production of Hairspray. Osher Marin JCC (San Rafael). 415.383.1100, mountainplay.org
7 Sunday Salon Enjoy a movie, Sunday brunch and a moderated discussion about film. Lark Theater (Larkspur). 415.924.5111, larktheater.net
Announcing a special benefit concert for Meals on Wheels–SF celebrating the season and the music of
Michelle Schmitt Thursday, December 2nd at 8PM at 142 Throckmorton Theatre in Mill Valley 9\nYf[] La[c]lk YnYadYZd] Yl2 L`] :gp G^^a[] Yl ),* L`jg[cegjlgf 9n]$ Eadd NYdd]q gj ooo&),*l`jg[cegjlgfl`]Ylj]&gj_ ?]f]jYd 9\eakkagf /2+(HE!2 *( Nah J][]hlagf .2,-HE!2 )(( (includes special cocktail reception, reserved seating, and a CD) >gj egj] af^gjeYlagf gj lg hmj[`Yk] ;<k hd]Yk] nakal2 ooo&ea[`]dd]k[`eall&[ge )(( g^ hjg[]]\k ^gj l`ak ]n]fl Yf\ ;< kYd]k g^ Christmas on Pine Mountain _g lg E]Ydk Gf O`]]dk K>&
8 Speaker Series Psychologist and author William Crain discusses the benefits of child-centered education. Marin Montessori School (Corte Madera). 415.924.5388, marinmontessori.org 11 Veterans’ Day Honor those who served our country with music, military exercises and a brief address. Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, marincenter.org
12–14 Napa Valley Film Festival The best of new independent film blends with Napa Valley food and wine at this first-ever event. 707.227.7621, napavalleyfilmfest.org
13 Hayden’s Hope Enjoy cocktails, buffet and auctions and help raise funds to find a cure for fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva, a very rare genetic bone disease. Bay Model Visitor’s Center (Sausalito). 415.250.1048, haydenshope.com
13 Ceramic Art Sale Award-winning Marin artists present their wares for sale. Terra Linda Ceramics Studio (San Rafael). terralindaceramics.com
13-14, 17 Live from the Met See works from the Metropolitan Opera House live MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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P O S T- I M P R E S S I O N I S M AT T H E D E YO U N G
Van Gogh, Gauguin, Cézanne and Beyond: Post-Impressionist Masterpieces from the Musée d’Orsay Cézanne, Gauguin, Toulouse-Lautrec, Van Gogh, Monet and Renoir are among the artists featured in the second part of the Musée d’Orsay exhibit. Thru Juanary 18.
in high definition. This month, Donizetti’s Don Pasquale. Lark Theater (Larkspur). 415.924.5111, larktheater.net
17 Tam Valley Speaker Series Take a trip back in time to when Portuguese dairy farmers were some of the largest landholders in Marin County. Tam Valley Community Center (Mill Valley). 415.388.6393, tcsd.us 18–20 Holiday Warehouse and Studio Sale More than 20 designers, artists, importers and manufacturers open their doors to the public. A great chance to support local artisans and pick up some unique gifts. Bel Marin Keys Business Park (Novato). 415.883.3072, belmarinkeysale.com 88
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20 Wintervention Warren Miller takes the audience along skiing in such places as Canada, Antarctica, California, New Zealand, Utah, Austria and Alaska in his new film narrated by skiing icon Jonny Moseley. Memorial Auditorium (San Rafael). 415.499.6800, warrenmiller.com 26 Festival of Lights Carolers, horse-drawn carriages, ice carving and thousands of lights complete the holiday feel at this annual wine country event. Downtown (Yountville). 707.944.0904, yountville.com
ceramics, furniture, jewelry and fiber arts at this annual open-studios event. coastalmarinartists.com
26-27 Parade of Lights This annual San Rafael event is back with arts and crafts, live entertainment, children’s activities, free snow sledding and one of the largest holiday parades in the Bay Area, fun for all ages. Fourth Street (San Rafael). sresproductions.com
NATURE WALKS/TALKS 26–28 Bolinas Stinson Open Studios Experience a rich array of art in styles including painting and watercolor, sculpture,
6 Sunset Hike and Dine Join this local club for a monthly two-hour hike on modMARINMAGAZINE.COM
IMAG ES: VINC ENT VA N G OG H, MAURIC E D ENIS AND PAUL GAUG UIN
415.750.3600, thinker.org
erate to steep trails on Mount Tamalpais with a mid-hike wine and cheese break. Reservations required. Meet other avid Marin hikers. Mountain Home Inn (Mill Valley). 415.331.0100, meetup.com/sunsethike
20 WildCare Family Adventures Walk through an ancient redwood tree and look for mushrooms, Trap Door Spiders and signs of salmon in the creek as you make your way to Stairstep Waterfalls. Devil’s Gulch parking area (Lagunitas). 415.453.1000, wildcarebayarea.org
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20 Moonlight Hike Join the Marin Moonshiners for a monthly three-mile hike to experience the sunset, moonrise and a picnic. Reservations required. Meet other people interested in the great outdoors. Pelican Inn Pub (Muir Beach). 415.331.0100, meetup.com/moonshinershike RETAIL THERAPY Dress for Success Get an early start on holiday shopping while benefiting employment and career services for women. The noprofit organization provides interview suits and career development to low-income women, November 30. Monaco Hotel, 501 Geary St (SF). 415.362.0034, dressforsuccess.org Evo Spa Enjoy complimentary services, a body treatment bar, wares from exclusive vendors, deals and a raffle on this annual client appreciation day, November 16. 800 Redwood Hwy (Mill Valley). 415.383.3223, evo-spa.com
Access Pass & Design Alongi Media Solutions Atwood Design Studio Big Cat Advertising BioMarin Calix Cynthia Myers PR & Marketing Drakes Bay Oyster Company Embassy Suites Hotel – San Rafael House of Prime Rib Inn Marin InTicketing Marin Community Foundation Marin Farmstead Cheese Company Marin FilmWorks
Marin Sanitary Service Mill Valley Film Festival Monster Montgomery Entertainment LLC PG&E Somersault Snack Co. Starbucks Step1 Three Twins Ice Cream Thumbprint Cellars Turning Technologies LLC Women, Leadership and Philanthropy Council at Dominican University Yahoo!
Special gratitude to the students, faculty, staff, alumni, trustees, and neighbors of Dominican University of California and the City of San Rafael.
Max & Addie Check out the full line of children’s clothing, specialty toys and classic books at this new Larkspur boutique. 467 Magnolia Ave (Larkspur). 415.891.3012, maxandaddie.com Sudha Sale Find great deals on jewelry, scarves and decorative arts from designer Sudha Pennathur at this seventh annual sale benefiting the Redwoods senior community and Bread & Roses, November 6. 23 Throckmorton Ave (Mill Valley). 415.438.5849, pennathur.com MARINMAGAZINE.COM
50 Acacia Avenue, San Rafael, California 94901 | www.dominican.edu
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S N A PSHOTS
Ambassadors of Hope and Opportunity celebrated its fifth anniversary with an open house benefit to launch its Drop In Cottage for youth. Guests enjoyed a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new center and noshed on appetizers provided by Frantoio and P. F. Chang’s. Right, Charles McGlashan, Kathy Severson, Zara Babitzke, Charles Williams, Daniela Sarnacchiano, Kevin Ippolito, Christin Anderson, Ross Johnson.
It’s moving day. Bank of Marin recently celebrated the opening of its new Corte Madera branch. The event was a commemoration of the new move from the bank’s site of 20 years to a new location at 504 Tamalpais Drive. Above left, Bill Petrocelli, Russ Colombo, Thomas Knopf; above right, Joan Capurro, Deborah Hok.
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At the 2010 Spirit of Marin awards hosted by the Bank of Marin, local volunteers were recognized for their outstanding service. Honorees included Mark Fishkin, Zoe Elton, Will Rigney, Frank Egger, Bill Thomas and others. For a full list of honorees see the Bank of Marin website. Above, Mark Fishkin, Susan and Joel Sklar, Dana King.
Casa Allegra Community Service celebrated its 35th year of helping people in Marin with developmental disabilities. Five recognition awards to various Marin groups were announced, and guests buzzed over the debut of the professional photos by Casa Allegra participants. Above, Diane Bazler, Jane Scurich, Jan White, Stevie Serleth.
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
P H OTO: SP IRIT OF MARIN/ RIC HARD W H EELER I MAG ING
Around Town
Locals, including Alice Radio’s Sarah Clark, showed up for a good cause, donating items to Goodwill and enhancing their wardrobe via consultations with celebrity stylist Bobbie Thomas at the Levi’s store to celebrate Levi’s new Curve ID jeans. Guests were also treated to a concert by actress Zooey Deschanel and her band She & Him. Left, Vinnie Hasson, Bobbie Thomas, Sarah Clark, Hooman Khalili; above, M. Ward, Meghan Smith, Zooey Deschanel.
S NAPSHOTS
Fashionable Marinites celebrated the grand opening of Carolina Loiacono’s Mill Valley boutique Carolina. The shop stocks items by Graham and Spencer, Theory and more. Left, Renee Sheppard, Mindy Jill Fox, Carolina Loiacono, Jesse Strassman, Kary Chendo.
Locals celebrated at the San Francisco Symphony’s 99th season opening with soprano Jessye Norman performing songs by Duke Ellington, with after-parties held in City Hall and the Tent Pavillion. Above, Karen Caldwell; left, George Shultz, Charlotte Shultz.
PHOTO: KIEH L’S/TRAVIS SH INN
Kiehl’s celebrated its longtime partnership with amfAR, the foundation for AIDS research. At the San Francisco event Kiehl’s donated $85,000 and unveiled the limited-edition Ultra Facial Moisturizer, from which all proceeds will benefit amfAR. Above far left, Jared Zaugg, Peter Coyote, Teddy Sears, Milissa Skoro; below far left, Joe Ehrlich, Joanne Weir, Joan Boada, Gary Danko, Rick Holland; left, Katee Sackhoff, Chris Salgardo, Tricia Helfer.
As part of United Way’s Week of Caring, employees and friends of Bregante + Company spent the day volunteering at Slide Ranch. Participants pulled invasive weeds, dug plant beds, composted vegetables and even planted new crop for next season. Top, from left, Kristin Masciorini, Michael Dreyer, Lawdan Young, Gina Brekhus, Mimi Pak, Jeff Belingheri; on the ground, Tonia Wasley, Arjun McAvoy, Keira McAvoy, Hillary McAvoy.
V I E W M O R E S N A P S H OT P H O T O S O N L I N E A T M A R I N M AG A Z I N E . C O M / S N A P MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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deals on meals
ADV E RT I S I NG PROMOT I ON
DINE out
EALS DEALS ON M
Deals on Meals Enjoy local restaurants and save 30 percent on meals. Check out the participating restaurants in our “Deals on Meals” section and experience
big savings. Spend only $35 for a dining certificate worth $50. Simply go to marinmagazine.com/dineout to purchase a dining certificate from a restaurant in this section and we will mail it to you. Try a new restaurant or purchase a certificate for an old favorite. A perfect gift for any occasion. Limited supply each month.
Dine local — save big time!
Amici’s offers a taste of the Northeast’s distinctive Italian fare, including authentic thin-crust pizzas, and freshly made pastas and salads. Amici’s offers dine-in and takeout as well as delivery of their entire menu to local homes and businesses. A Gluten Free menu is also available at the San Rafael location.
Founded in 1991 by Goetz Boje, the principle owner of Harris’ Restaurant in San Francisco, Novato’s Cacti Restaurant features traditional American cuisine, offering quality steaks, seafood, and a variety of California wines.
Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria 1242 Fourth Street San Rafael, CA
Cacti Restaurant 1200 Grant Ave Novato, CA
415.455.9777 amicis.com
415.898.2234 CactiRestaurant.com
The historic Cliff House offers awesome views from every angle and one of nature’s best shows every day. Dine in the casual Bistro Restaurant or the elegant Sutro’s at the Cliff House. Sunday Brunch in the Terrace Room is a Bay Area tradition with free-flowing champagne and a delicious buffet.
Welcome to dish, Mill Valley’s newest restaurant offering healthy, locally sourced, delicious and affordable comfort food. The urban meets country setting is a cozy meeting place open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Excellent food - socially and environmentally responsible - friendly and comfortable for all.
Cliff House 1090 Point Lobos San Francisco, CA
dish Mill Valley 507 Miller Avenue Mill Valley, CA
415.386.3330 cliffhouse.com
415.388.DISH (3474) dishmillvalley.com
spend only $35 for a $50 dining certificate from participating restaurants
A DV E RT I S I NG PROMOT I ON
deals on meals
Il Fornaio offers an authentic Italian dining experience. Specialties include artisan cocktails, an award-winning wine list, housemade pastas, fresh salads/soups, a wide variety of desserts, and fresh baked bread. Featuring a special Thanksgiving menu in addition to regular menu. Open on Thanksgiving 11:30am – 8:00pm.
New from the oven…soon to become a Rulli classic. Panettone Autunnale available starting October 15 to Thanksgiving only. Autumn spices in Rulli’s traditional panettone made with olive oil, dried cranberries, pistachios, dried apricots, walnuts & pumpkin seeds with baked walnut almond paste glaze | one size (900g) $37.
Il Fornaio 223 Corte Madera Town Ctr Corte Madera, CA
Emporio Rulli 464 Magnolia Avenue Larkspur, CA
415.927.4400 ilfornaio.com
415.924.7478 rulli.com
Since 1947, San Rafael Joe’s has established itself as a Marin County Tradition. Well-known for its contemporary Italian-American cuisine, modest prices, and convivial atmosphere offering a full bar, large dining rooms, banquet facilities, and exceptional live music three nights a week. Open everyday for lunch and dinner!
Tra Vigne is a quintessential wine country experience. From its classic neo-Italian dining room highlighting the old world bar to the magnificent shade-covered Tuscan courtyard, you could be anywhere in Italy. This cooking is the heart and hand of Italy, an amazing compliment to the beautiful Napa Valley.
San Rafael Joe’s 931 Fourth Street San Rafael, CA
Tra Vigne 1050 Charter Oak Ave St. Helena, CA
415.456.2425 sanrafaeljoes.com
707.963.4444 travignerestaurant.com
Family owned since 1987. Serving authentic Italian Cuisine. Offering Happy Hour, Early special, Live Music, Full Bar in a romantic and comfortable environment. Using mostly fresh, organic and wild ingredients with reasonable prices. Thin crust pizza is a neighborhood favorite. Dine in - Take out - Catering.
Cibo = Food We are open breakfast and lunch serving seasonally inspired food sourced locally from farmers and purveyors whom dedicate themselves to their products’ quality. Cibo serves Blue Bottle Coffee, House Made Panini, Savories, Pastries and Desserts in a contemporary dining environment with indoor and outdoor seating.
Benissimo 18 Tamalpais Drive Corte Madera, CA
Cibo 1201 Bridgeway Sausalito, CA
415.927.2316 benissimos.com
415.331.2426 cibosausalito.com
go to marinmagazine.com/dineout and save 30 percent on meals
deals on meals
ADV E RT I S I NG PROMOT I ON
Come visit us at Comforts Cafe where we serve breakfast and lunch daily. Menus change weekly, featuring only the finest and freshest from local and organic farms. Homemade pastries and granola, Pecan-crusted Challah French Toast, Huevos Rancheros, and Chinese Chicken Salad are among our delicious specialties.
Frantoio tantalizes your taste buds with it’s authentic Italian cuisine. Serving locally produced fruit, vegetables, seafoods and meats the restaurant supports the local economy wherever possible whilst remaining loyal to its Tuscan roots. Enjoy fantastic salads, pasta, pizza and entrees in an elegant yet relaxed setting.
Comforts Cafe & Take-out 335 San Anselmo Avenue San Anselmo, CA
Frantoio Ristorante 152 Shoreline Highway Mill Valley, CA
415.454.9840 comfortscafe.com
Acknowledge your craving for P.F. Chang’s! Our menu features a variety of dishes you won’t find anywhere else like Chang’s Lettuce Wraps and Mongolian Beef. View our menu, reserve a table or order online at pfchangs.com. Join us for Happy Hour from 3pm-6pm everyday! P.F. Chang’s 301 Corte Madera Town Center Corte Madera, CA
®
415.413.9890 pfchangs.com
415.289.5777 frantoio.com
Visit the Seafood Peddler for the freshest seafood Marin has to offer, shipped in daily from the east and west coast! Dine indoors or enjoy our beautiful waterfront patio. Catch live music in our Palm Ballroom! Book one of our banquet rooms for a private party, perfect for any occasion. Seafood Peddler 100 Yacht Club Drive San Rafael, CA
415.460.6669 seafoodpeddler.com
Whether in Novato or Mill Valley, TOAST will always be considered a neighborhood, family-oriented restaurant, providing a wide array of genuinely fresh, affordable and innovative home cooking. Planning a business meeting or special event? Let TOAST catering make your event a memorable one.
This locally-owned bar and grill features Niman Ranch burgers, hand tossed pizzas, salads and sandwiches. Dine on the outdoor patio, enjoy drinks from the full bar and watch sporting events on numerous giant screens. Live music every Friday. Wipeout is family friendly and supports the local community.
TOAST Mill Valley, CA 415.388.2500
Wipeout Bar & Grill 302 Bon Air Center Greenbrae, CA
toastnovato.com Novato, CA 415.382.1144
415.461.7400 wipeoutbarandgrill.com
spend only $35 for a $50 dining certificate from participating restaurants
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F LAVO R
Turkey Sides Tyler Florence shares two of his favorites
T
his month Tyler Florence has come out with his latest book, Tyler Florence Family Meal, just in time for Thanksgiving. “I love cooking for my family and teaching my kids how to cook in the kitchen,” says Florence. “Family Meal was a perfect fit for where I am in my life right now. I have my restaurant families, my wine-making family, my kitchen shop family—all of these families are intertwined with our kids and our day-to-day life in such a special way. I wanted to write
about all of my experiences and favorite recipes.” This month, we have selected two that might enliven your Thanksgiving meal; for more ideas, check out the hundreds of recipes on tylerflorence.com as well over 500 recipes on his namesake iPhone application.
Do you have a favorite Thanksgiving taste? I love the taste of sage
Turkey preparation tips? There are so many ways to prepare a turkey.
during the fall and winter months. There is something about fresh sage
I like to treat a turkey like a large chicken—roast the parts separately but
in stuffing and in the brine and spices for the turkey that just screams
together in a roasting pan without the bones. You cut the breasts and legs
Thanksgiving.
off, season with salt and pepper, sear them in a roasting pan over high
Have you brought recipes from your childhood to your Thanksgiving
heat skin side down until the skin is golden and caramelized, and then
table? In my new book, I have an entire chapter on my Southern heri-
flip them over and roast them in the oven at 350 for 30 minutes or until
tage with a bunch of recipes from my grandmother Florence Mama. I
the internal temperature of the breast reaches 160 degrees.
make her sweet potatoes every year at Thanksgiving.
What have you added to mashed potatoes? I like to mix sweet potatoes with mashed potatoes. I call them “potatoes savory and sweet.” I also like to add turnips to the potatoes when boiling them and then mixing them all together. Cranberries? I always keep a bag of cranberries in the freezer. It’s so easy to throw them in a pot with some orange juice and a little honey or brown sugar and they’re done. When do you like to serve Thanksgiving dinner? We go back and forth on when to serve dinner. My in-laws like to eat early and we like to eat later. Regardless, we get together as a family in the afternoon and watch football, play with the kids or watch a movie. Typically, we have light appetizers before dinner—spiced nuts and some sort of olives—and eat by 5 p.m. Kids’ table or mixed? We never have a kids’ table. We work really hard to make our kids’ feel like they’re part of the table with the entire family. It’s important with our kids being
tience, manners and delicious food—the whole thing. Speaking of pie, if one wasn’t going to make one’s own...any suggestions on local sources? We love everything by Rustic Bakery and Sweet Things. Sometimes when we’re swamped during the holidays, we order things from them. But by far,
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PH OTOS: JOHN LEE
so young that they understand mealtime—conversation, pa-
the pie lady at Marin Joe’s makes my favorite
Place the unpeeled onions in a
holiday pie. She does a walnut and raisin pie
bowl and cover with very hot
every now and then, and it’s worth the trip.
water. Set aside for 15 minutes
Do you have a favorite thing to do with left-
to soften the skins. Drain the on-
over turkey? We do a big turkey and barley soup
ions, then peel and pat dry. Heat
the next day that cooks on the stove all day.
a large skillet over high heat and
Where do you plan to have Thanksgiving this year? And how many people will be at the table? We do Thanksgiving at my in-laws’ home in Mill Valley. My mother-in-law, Marjorie Clark, loves Thanksgiving and she goes all out. She has her grandmother’s original china, glassware, and napkins. She and my wife polish the silver, and make the flower arrangements. We have a big group, so she actually moves the furniture out of the living room and sets up big tables by the fireplace. The group fluctuates from 20 to 30 people each year. She takes in all of our friends and extended family and everyone brings special dishes. Chuck and Janet do their famous brussells sprouts every year, Nick bakes a tart, B.G. bakes the pies, Marjorie does the turkeys, and I do the sides and gravy.
R EC I P E S
CREAMED SPINACH WITH ROASTED CIPOLLINI ONIONS AND TOASTED BREAD CRUMBS
add a 2-count of oil. Add the onions and sauté until they are golden brown all over, about 10 minutes. Add the vinegar and honey, reduce the heat to medium, and cook until the mixture has reduced to a syrup and the onions are soft, about 20 minutes. Preheat the oven to 400°F. Heat a large pot over medium heat. Drizzle with a 2-count of oil, add the butter, and stir it around until it melts. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the spinach in batches, pushing it down into the pan with a wooden spoon to help it wilt and adding more spinach as soon as there is room in the pot. Cook the spinach until it is dry, then reduce the heat and add the cream and nutmeg. Stir and cook for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
This dish was a happy accident. I wanted to serve creamed spinach for our family Christmas dinner but make it a bit more special. Roasted onions and the crunch of bread crumbs really take this old warhorse
Pour the creamed spinach into a baking dish and top it with the onions and the panko. Bake until the bread crumbs are golden brown, about 15 minutes. Serve hot.
to the next level. Pair it with a simple grilled steak or beef tenderloin. Serves 4 to 6.
Pinch of grated nutmeg 2 tablespoons Calvados 4 slices brioche loaf, cut into small cubes 4 tablespoons (B/c stick) unsalted butter, melted 1 pint vanilla-bean ice cream Preheat the oven to 375°F. Grease four 6-ounce ramekins with butter and sprinkle with granulated sugar. In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple wedg-
APPLE BROWN BETTY WITH ICE CREAM
2 pounds cipollini onions Extra-virgin olive oil
B/c teaspoon ground cinnamon
A betty is a classic American dessert made
es, lemon juice, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and Calvados and toss to combine. Place the bread cubes in a separate mix-
up of a baked pudding layered with spiced
ing bowl and pour the melted butter over
fruit and sweetened crumbs. I make this des-
B/c cup honey
them. Toss to coat the bread with the butter.
sert with pears when they are in season and
Place some of the bread cubes in the bot-
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
in the summer, I add fresh berries. Add cur-
tom of each ramekin followed by some of
1 onion, minced
rants or golden raisins to mix it up. Serves 4.
the apple mixture. Repeat to make a second
4 ( 12-ounce ) bags fresh spinach, stemmed and washed
Unsalted butter, for the ramekins
to compact slightly. Pour any remaining liq-
Granulated sugar, for the ramekins
uid from the apple bowl over the ramekins.
2 cups heavy cream
4 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and cut into thin wedges
Arrange the ramekins on a rimmed baking
1 teaspoon grated nutmeg Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper
Juice of 1 lemon
to 45 minutes. Serve warm or at room tem-
2 cups panko bread crumbs
B/c cup packed light brown sugar
perature topped with a scoop of ice cream.
1 cup balsamic vinegar
2 garlic cloves, minced
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
layer, pressing down gently on the fillings
sheet and bake until golden and crusty, 40
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INSIDER’S GUIDE
DINE OUT CORTE MADERA BENISSIMO Italian Benissimo means “really really good” in Italian. From margherita pizza to veal parmigiana to mocha mud pie, Benissimo serves a taste of Italy in a casual neighborhood venue. 18 Tamalpais Dr, 415.927.2316, benissimos.com
CHAMPAGNE BAKERY French This casual bakery displays fresh-made pastries, croissants, tarts, cookies and cakes, to be enjoyed indoors or out on the patio. Brioche French toast and the French dip sandwich with Swiss cheese are among the many menu options. Catering is also available. 103 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.5470,
DEER PARK VILLA Italian This “best place for a party” (Pacific Sun) sits on four garden acres; the Ghiringhelli family has been turning out Italian favorites here since 1937. Come for the famous veal parmesan—or your next big celebration. 367
FABRIZIO RISTORANTE Italian Traditional Italian dishes with an extensive wine list from regions all over Italy; outside seating makes the experience even more special. 455 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.3332, fabriziorestaurant.com
Bolinas Rd, 415.456.8084, deerparkvilla.com
IRON SPRINGS PUB & BREWERY American Grab a beer and a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich—which one Chronicle reviewer calls “the best mushroom dish I have ever tasted” —at the former Ross Valley Brewing Company. 765-A Center Blvd, 415.485.1005, ironspringspub.com
LEFT BANK RESTAURANT French Known for award-winning French cuisine and its lively brasserie ambience, this corner spot has rated high with locals for well over a decade. Those with a petite appetite/budget can opt for happy hour (4–6:30 M–F) and enjoy appetizers, all priced under three dollars. 507 Magnolia Ave, 415.927.3331, leftbank.com
SORELLA CAFFÉ Italian Open for over six years, and run by sisters Sonia and Soyara, Sorella, which means “sisters” serves up fresh Italian food with a northern influence. Customer favorites include cioppino, butternut ravioli, and eggplant parmesan. Another highlight is the giant wheel of Grana Padana cheese, which is passed around the tables. Easy place to bring the kids. 107 Bolinas Rd, 415.258.4520, sorellacaffe.com
champagnebakery.com
PICCO California This has been a popular spot ever since opening in 2005 . Dishes like miniburgers and seasonally driven menu items, along with risotto made every half hour, keep people coming back. The Picco Pizzeria and Wine Bar next door is cozy (not many seats) but already famous for its wood-fired pizzas, great wine selection and soft-serve Straus Family Creamery ice cream. 320 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0300, restaurantpicco.com
IL FORNAIO Italian Sausalito’s Larry Mindel hit a home run with this upscale Italian 23-restaurant franchise. Besides the award-winning breads, pizzas and pastas, the menu boasts a variety of salads and noncarb entrées. 223 Corte Madera Town Ctr, 415.927.4400, ilfornaio.com
MARIN JOE’S Italian Pasta and other Italian dishes have been served here for over 50 years. Pick from soup, salad, seafood mesquite-grilled or sautéed meats and over 10 pasta options guaranteed to satisfy. Have a drink and hear local musicians at the well-known piano bar. 1585 Casa Buena Dr, 415.924.2081, marinjoesrestaurant.com
PACIFIC CATCH Pan-Asian This well-priced fresh grill eatery offers a bounty of Pacific Rim —inspired small or main plates, like the generously portioned wasabi bowls filled with rice (white or brown), veggies and your choice of cooked or raw fish, chicken or beef. Modeled after the Paia Fish House on Maui down to the chalk board menu and Hawaiian music. 223 Corte Madera Town Ctr,
GREENBRAE JASON’S Italian The restaurant’s Greenbrae location (it was formerly on Andersen Drive in San Rafael) fills the space that was formerly Giorgio’s. A crowd of regulars enjoys creative seafood dishes with Italian flair. Enjoy the ceviche, crab cakes or blackened salmon on the large outdoor covered patio. 300 Drakes Landing Rd, 415.925.0808, jasonsrestaurant.com
WIPEOUT BAR & GRILL American Who says you can’t go back to being a carefree teenager for a night? This family-friendly hot spot has surfboards hanging from the ceiling, fun-in-the-sun music, a full bar and large televisions displaying surfers riding waves. The only thing missing is the sand at this surf-style, upbeat eatery. 302 Bon Air Center, 415.461.7400, wipeoutbarandgrill.com
RUSTIC BAKERY California Organic mouth watering pastries, breads, and sandwiches are on the menu here including Meyer lemon mascarpone danishes and bacon, avocado and heirloom tomato sandwich with mesclun. 1139 Magnolia Ave, 415.925.1556, rusticbakery.com
TAVERN AT LARK CREEK American The next chapter in the 1888 Victorian Murphy House is being written by chef Randy Lewis and culinary director Adrian Hoffman. 234 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.7766, tavernatlarkcreek.com
THE MELTING POT French Just across the street from the Larkspur Ferry terminal is a round red-brick haven for fondue fans. Share the “Big Night Out” feast featuring chef’s specialties, or design your own spread with cheese fondue, salad, meat entrée and chocolate fondue dessert. 125 E. Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.461.6358,
KENTFIELD
themeltingpot.com
P.F. CHANG’S CHINA BISTRO Chinese Loyal customers keep coming back for the lettuce wraps and Mongolian beef. 301 Corte Madera Town
HALF DAY CAFE American A tucked-away setting of intertwining ivy and large open windows makes the perfect breakfast nook. Serving breakfast, brunch and lunch, the menu includes lattes, exceptional pastries and much more. Dine on the outdoor patio or inside. 848
Ctr, 415.413.9890, pfchangs.com
College Ave, 415.459.0291, halfdaycafe.com
YANKEE PIER American This family-friendly casual clam shack is harbored in a quaint house built in 1924 as a private residence. Though known for beer-battered fish ‘n’ chips, clam chowder and tasty salads, Yankee Pier serves fresh seafood delivered daily from both coasts with special dishes by chef Chris Ball. 286 Magnolia
415.927.3474, pacificcatch.com
Ave, 415.924.7676, yankeepier.com
RICK’S WINE CELLAR California Customers call the winebar the “Cheers of Corte Madera.” Offerings include a glass, a flight or a bottle, all of which pair nicely with the cheeses, salami and hot paninis. 207 Corte Madera Ave, 415.927.9466, rickswinecellar.com
LARKSPUR MILL VALLEY DJ CHINESE CUISINE Chinese A great place to satisfy a craving for wonton soup before catching a show at the Lark Theater. Lunch and takeout are popular too, but the outdoor patio steals the show. 435 Magnolia Ave, 415.924.0717
FAIRFAX CHAD’S GARDEN & GRILL CAFE Italian Pop in for a fennel-apple-and-walnut salad on the deck or one of the savory paninis or wraps. Menu includes lots of healthy vegetarian selections. 85
EMPORIO RULLI Italian Pastry chef Gary Rulli is renowned for his Northern Italian specialties and treats. The Larkspur location (there are three others) is a popular spot for lunch as well as award-winning coffee and a sweet. 464 Magnolia
Bolinas Rd, 415.454.7864, chadscafe.com
Ave, 415.924.7478, rulli.com
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AVATAR’S PUNJABI BURRITOS Indian A small and friendly place with only a few tables but myriad Indian-inspired burrito dishes to choose from. Try the curry chicken or Jamaican jerk wrapped in warm naan. Cash only, but worth the trip to the ATM. 15 Madrona St, 415.381.8293 BALBOA CAFE MILL VALLEY California The San Francisco institution has already become a place to see and be seen in Mill Valley, especially after the 142 Throckmorton Comedy nights. MARINMAGAZINE.COM
Come for the pan-roasted Alaskan halibut or risotto but stay for the amazing burgers. 38 Miller Ave, 415.381.7321, balboacafe.com
BEERWORKS BREWERY AND BEER CAFE American With a beverage menu of handcrafted beers made on site, imported and local microbrews and housemade kombucha and root beer, this Mill Valley brewery is set to keep the local palate satiated. Don’t miss the small beer hall selection of pretzels, salumis and cheeses. 173 Throckmorton Ave, 415.336.3596, millvalleybeerworks.com
BUCKEYE ROADHOUSE American Oysters Bingo, baby back ribs and chili-lime “brick” chicken are a few of the satisfying, comfortfood-type menu items that have made this classic roadhouse a favorite since the ’30s. The warm dark-wooded bar with red leather booths is a popular spot for cocktails, conversations or a light meal. 15 Shoreline Hwy, 415.331.2600, buckeyeroadhouse.com
BUNGALOW 44 American Much like sister restaurant Buckeye Roadhouse, Bungalow 44 offers a mean dose of homey carbo- and lipidladen dishes, such as the burger, fried chicken and truffle fries, as well as a few lighter items. The bar is a neighborhood favorite, known for tasty spirits and eye candy. 44 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.381.2500, bungalow44.com
CACTUS CAFE AND TAQUERIA Mexican Tucked in a little nook across from Whole Foods, this is the perfect spot to sit down with the family or grab burritos to go. The burritos themselves are enormous and the tacos are out of this world. Their signature creamy Diablo sauce has a spicy kick to it and is favored by the locals. 393 Miller
Marco Bicego Trunk Show, Friday-Sunday, November 12-14 Meadowlark Gallery 412 Corte Madera Town Center 866.924.2210 | www.meadowlarkgalleries.com
Ave, 415.388.8226
CAFE DEL SOUL California Beware of addiction. Once you stop in for the deliciously fresh Hummus Yummus wrap, you’ll have to come back to sample the chipotle Sunrise Rice Bowl; then it will be the Thai It Up wrap with peanut sauce washed down with ginger limeade that brings you back, and so on. Casual lunch spot, great for takeout. 247 Shoreline Hwy, 415.388.1852, cafedelsoul.net
CHAMPAGNE French Enjoy a croque monsieur alfresco, linger over a flaky, buttery croissant with a cappuccino, or pick up chocolate-dipped strawberries for your dinner party. All that and more at this French bakery cafe. 41 Throckmorton Ave, 415.380.0410, millvalley.champagnebakery.com
DIPSEA CAFE Comfort One word: biscuits. This longtime breakfast spot has been serving up tasty pancakes and egg dishes with homemade biscuits since 1986. Try a biscuit with a poached egg, a biscuit with sausage—or just plain butter. Lunch specialties include BLTs and tuna melts and generous Cobb salads. Now serving dinner. 200 Shoreline Hwy, 415.381.0298, dipseacafe.com
DISH California Sit inside or out at this hip casual eatery on Miller Avenue. The result of a vision of Mill Valley locals including Peter Schumacher and Mike House, DISH was created as an all-day MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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gathering spot serving healthy, organic food and drinks. Start the morning with a cappuccino, or stop in after midday yoga for a salad or sandwich and end the day with a glass of wine (free corkage) on the outdoor patio watching the sunset behind Mount Tamalpais. 507 Miller, 415.388.3013, dishmillvalley.com
FRANTOIO RISTORANTE ITALIANO Italian Known for its in-house olive press, superior olive oil and excellent Italian cuisine, this is a great location for an intimate dinner, large groups and anything in between. Happy hour starts at 4:30 in the sizable, comfortable bar area, where you can snack on antipasti or order your whole meal. Owned by Roberto Zecca and Chef Duilio Valenti, both from Milano; the kitchen uses local and organic ingredients—it’s the Italian way. For special occasions and private parties, reserve the olive-press room. 152 Shoreline Hwy, 415.289.5777, frantoio.com
INDIA PALACE Indian Known as “that great restaurant in the Travelodge,” India Palace is a favorite among the takeout crowd; however, eating on site is a treat too. The all-you-can-eat lunch shouldn’t be missed. 707 Redwood Hwy, 415.388.3350
GIRA POLLI Italian Not in the mood to cook? Pick up a wood-fired rotisserie chicken or family dinner from this hot spot, or stick around for the specialty pasta and a glass of wine. 590 East Blithedale Ave, 415.383.6040
GRILLY’S RESTAURANT Mexican Now open after a five-month remodel, both the Mill Valley and Fairfax locations serve, “healthy Meixcan food,” like grilled chicken, steak or veggie-filled burritos with gluten free and vegetarian options. 493 Miller Ave, 415.381.3278, grillys.com
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JOE’S TACO LOUNGE Mexican A longtime local favorite, Joe’s serves up regular fare such as tasty fish tacos, burritos and enchiladas as well as more unusual items like Mexican pizza, tofu salad, and crab tostados. Colorful interior and (usually) quick service makes this a fun, easy stop. And if there are too many unsupervised kids for a peaceful meal, takeout is easy too. Alone? Grab a magazine and seat at the counter and enjoy the action. 382 Miller, 415.383.8164 MAMA’S ROYAL CAFE American Old-timers love this fabulous kitsch-decorated breakfast spot. The menu offers crepes, brioche French toast and other a.m. specialties served all day; stay awhile and try the sandwiches for lunch. 87 Miller Ave, 415.388.3261
MILL VALLEY COFFEE SHOP American Sure, it could use a steam clean, but the regulars keep coming back for the pancakes and eggs. Great place to bring the kids. 4 Locust Ave, 415.388.6958 PIAZZA D’ANGELO Italian It’s always a party at this long-standing hot spot. A great place to meet up with friends for a fresh plate of pasta, zuppa di pesce or pollo novello, or make some new friends at the bar. 22 Miller Ave, 415.388.2000, piazzadangelo.com
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PIATTI RISTORANTE AND BAR Italian The staff prides itself on capturing the warm and welcoming atmosphere of a traditional Italian trattoria. Try for a table at the window for a truly exceptional view right on the water. Take a peek at the impressive collection of Italian wines. 625 Redwood Hwy, 415.380.2525, piatti.com
PIZZA ANTICA Italian Although a recent Yelp reviewer called it, “by far the best thin crust pizzas in Marin,” this Mill Valley spot also serves up antipasti selections and hearty salads. Wine is served by the glass, half carafe or bottle. 800 Redwood Hwy, 415.383.0600, pizzaantica.com
ROBATA GRILL AND SUSHI Japanese Robata translates as “by the fireside”; fittingly, food here can be cooked on an open fire and served in appetizer-size portions to pass around the table. Or simply order your own sushi or entree from the menu. 591 Redwood Hwy, 415.381.8400, robatagrill.com
SMALL SHED FLATBREADS California As a slow food chef, Ged Robertson uses only local, mostly organic ingredients. Crowd favorites include the mt. tamal-pie, a delicious fresh salad atop a flatbread. 17 Madrona St, 415.383.4200, smallshed.com
TONY TUTTO PIZZA Italian Tony has been pouring his passion for pizza into his cooking for two decades and is now sharing his family recipes: “It’s all about excellence in pizza, sprinkled with musical flavors and kissed with colorful passion. We feature creative artisanstyle pizza using the best imported, natural and local organic ingredients.” 246 E. Blithedale Ave, 415.383.8646, tonytuttopizza.com
TSUKIJI SUSHI Japanese Named for the largest fish market in world, Tsukiji is owned by Roy and Chanel Liu, who earned their sushi stripes operating Morpho in San Francisco and Akira in San Rafael. Helping them behind the sushi bar is former Sushi Ran head sushi chef Haruo Komatsu. 24 Sunnyside Ave., 415.383.1382.
NOVATO BOCA STEAK & SEAFOOD South American This classic steak house celebrates chef George Morrone’s (Aqua, Fifth Floor) Argentinean heritage. The grass- and grain-fed steaks are cooked over oak and almond. Head to the restaurant early for a three-course prix-fixe dinner. 340 Ignacio Blvd, 415.883.0901, bocasteak.com CACTI GRILL American A former bell tower church, the family-friendly restaurant now boasts a covered patio and serves a 21-day dry-aged steak and filet mignon enchiladas. 1200 Grant Ave, 415.898.2234, cactigrill.com
EXTREME PIZZA American Come up with your own pizza creation or choose one of the restaurant’s favorites like the Mr. Pestato Head: homemade pesto sauce, potatoes, red onions, feta, fresh basil and mozzarella. 104 Vintage Way, 415.898.6575, extremepizza.com
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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Art, Gifts & Accessories 47 C Tamal Vista Blvd., Corte Madera (415) 945-8863 • Next to DMV MARIN NOVEMBER 2010
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GRAZIE Italian Come for delicious paninis, salads and the unbeatable homemade cookies. Enjoy good weather on the outside patio or peoplewatch in this always-bustling restaurant. 823 Grant
DREAM FARM California The menu features bounty from Marin’s award-winning farms, dairies, and fisheries. Best yet is the price point: no dish is over $20. 198 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.453.9898,
LOTUS RESTAURANT American Bistro/Creperie Family owned and operated, Lotus serves up North Indian cuisine with vegan and vegetarian options in a casual pink-tablecloth setting. 704
Ave, Ste E, 415.878.0202
dreamfarmmarin.com
Fourth St, 415.456.5808, lotusrestaurant.com
JENNIE LOW’S CHINESE CUISINE Chinese Traditional dishes including Cantonese, Mandarin, Szechuan and Hunan delicacies. Check out the menu’s new Light Creations section for lower-fat recipe modifications of the restaurant’s popular items. If you don’t see your favorite dish, let the restaurant know; whenever possible, they’re happy to try and prepare new items not on the menu. 120 Vintage Way, 415.892.8838, jennielow.com
INSALATA’S Mediterranean Award-winning chef Heidi Insalata Krahling offers Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes prepared with local organic produce and artisan meats. 120 Sir Francis
MCINNIS PARK GOLF CLUB RESTAURANT American Chef Tim Harmon has created an eclectic menu for brunch, lunch and dinner. Outdoor seating is popular, as well as the full bar with a selection of premium Scotches, small batch bourbons and over 50 wines from California’s finest vineyards. McInnis Park, 415.491.5990,
TOAST American Sister to the popular Mill Valley location, Toast Novato features outdoor dining and architecture by Stanley Saitowitz and still has the great dishes by executive chef Michael Garcia that have made the southern Marin spot a not-to-be-missed destination. 5800 Nave Dr, 415.382.1144, toastnovato.com
TUSCANY COUNTRY GRILL Italian The Chicken Pesto Panini and Eggplant Parmigiano are among many of the favorites at this charming and spacious Italian eatery. The menu is eclectic, prices are fair and the portions are enormous, so be prepared for leftovers throughout the week. It brings in a bit of traffic during lunchtime so make reservations or arrive early. 1516 Grant Ave,
Drake Blvd, 415.457.7700, insalatas.com
L’APPART RESTO French It’s the second (and highly anticipated) Marin restaurant for the team behind Le Garage Bistro. In the former AVA spot, owners Bruno Denis and Olivier Souvestre have created a menu most Francophiles would be proud of, complete with items like smoked herring, bone marrow and cassoulet de legumes. 636 San Anselmo Ave, 415.256.9884, lappartresto.com
MARINITAS Mexican The sister restaurant of Insalata’s, Marinitas continues to flourish as it brings Latin flair home to Marin. It may not be as cheap as most Mexican restaurants in the area, but this is not your typical south-of-theborder spot. The festive atmosphere and funky decor complement the excellent food for a classy, lively experience. Finish strong with the rich Tres Leches Cake. This place gets packed, so make reservations. 218 Sir Francis Drake Blvd,
Prado, 415.883.9125, wildfoxrestaurant.com
SAN GERONIMO RED TAIL BAR & GRILL California The beautiful views overlooking the San Geronimo Valley redwoods and wildlife will captivate you while you indulge in the new menu featuring West Marin meats, cheeses and produce. 5800 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, 415.488.4030
ROSS CAFE ON THE COMMON French A quaint oneroom coffeehouse centrally situated near Ross Common. Get there early for the full selection of pastries to enjoy with fresh-squeezed orange juice. 22 Ross Common, 415.461.2205
TWO BIRD CAFÉ California This roadside cafe has it all, including fresh fish and goodies from the garden. These guys were doing local and sustainable even before it was so popular. 625 San
415.925.9200, marcheauxfleursrestaurant.com
SAN ANSELMO
AMICI’S EAST COAST PIZZERIA California With a bevy of pizza options including gluten-free crust and the new Siciliano, an enticing mix of mozzarella, slow-roasted garlic, sausage, broccoli and crushed red pepper flakes sans the tomato sauce. 1242 Fourth St, 415.455.9777, amicis.com
COMFORTS Cafe Be sure to try the Philly cheesesteak and Chinese chicken salad (both classics) at this cozy spot. 335 San Anselmo Ave,
CHALET BASQUE French This family-style restaurant serves dishes inspired by the Basque regions of France and Spain, including frog legs in a garlic butter and lemon sauce, a veal calf liver sauté and rack of lamb. 405 North San Pedro
415.454.9840, comfortscafe.com
Rd, 415.479.1070, chaletbasquemarin.com
CUCINA RESTAURANT AND WINE BAR Italian Relax with a glass of wine and have a slice from the to-die-for thin pizzas, topped with items like truffle oil and fontina cheese. 510 San Anselmo Ave,
IL DAVIDE Italian A large selection of both Italian and Californian wines by the glass along with the tiramisu have kept locals coming back for years. Don’t leave without sampling the limoncello. 901 A St, 415.454.8080, ildavide.net
415.454.2942, cucinarestaurantandwinebar.com
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415.446.5543
PANAMA HOTEL RESTAURANT American The tropical garden is a must-dine-at location for people-watching and for taking advantage of San Rafael’s warm weather. The Sunday brunch menu is a hit with kids, who can’t get enough of the Panama Waffle served with bananas, warm chocolate sauce and whipped cream. 4 Bayview St, 415.457.3993, panamahotel.com
SABOR OF SPAIN Spanish Named Best Tapas/ Small Dishes restaurant in Marin by the Pacific Sun in 2006, this Spanish wine bar is a great place for a date or a big party. The gazpacho is world class here and a must-try. 1301 Fourth St, 415.457.8466, saborofspain.com
SAN RAFAEL JOE’S Italian Guido and Theresa Farina are now running this Marin institution, which has been famous for serving up sophisticated yet casual Italian fare since 1947. Great for large parties, the dining room holds 240. The Pacific red snapper meunière and roast sirloin of beef are standouts. 931 Fourth St, 415.456.2425, srjoes.com
Geronimo Valley Dr, 415.488.0105, twobirdcafe.com
SAN RAFAEL MARCHÉ AUX FLEURS French This gem of a restaurant serves up locally farmed produce, wild and fresh seafood and free-range meats prepared with an artisan’s touch. The wine and beer list is extensive. 23 Ross Common,
MIKADO SUSHI Japanese This beautifully decorated, family -owned sushi spot has been open for about two years in its Terra Linda location. Serving both raw and cooked dishes, and 20 different choices of sake. Dine in or stay home and get it delivered. 248 Northgate One,
415.454.8900, marinitas.net
415.998.2800
WILDFOX American Perched on the hillside off Highway 101, this rustic mesquite grill offers a menu full of comfort food and drinks, like the smooth cosmos, and seafood risotto, with bits of butternut squash. In the mood for a cigar? The restaurant has an extensive list. 225 Alameda del
mcinnisparkgolfcenter.com/restaurant.html
SEAFOOD PEDDLER Seafood A great place to seek out fresh seafood in a warm and inviting environment. Varieties of East and West Coast fish flown in daily. Dine indoors or out, or better yet, rent out the banquet room for a party. 100 Yacht Club Dr, 415.460.6669, seafoodpeddler.com
SOL FOOD Puerto Rican With south-of-theborder treats like yellow rice, beans, plantains and authentic Puerto Rican dishes, this tiny oneroom eatery on Fourth Street just off Highway 101 can be hard to get into, but worth the wait. 732 Fourth St, and 901 Lincoln Ave, 415.451.4765, solfoodrestaurant.com
SUSHI TO DAI FOR Japanese Snagging a seat in this popular sushi spot can be a challenge, but patience will be rewarded with tasty and fresh sashimi, unique sushi rolls and great prices. 869 Fourth St, 415.721.0392
THERESA & JOHNNY’S COMFORT FOOD American Cooking like Mom used to make. Drop MARINMAGAZINE.COM
by for eggs Benedict, tuna melts, coffee and some of the best milk shakes around. 817 Fourth St, 415.259.0182, theresa-and-johnnys.com
YET WAH Chinese Named after the founder’s wife (Yet refers to the moon, Wah to brightness), this beloved mainstay offers dim sum daily along with the traditional Chinese menu. Groove to live music in the Kung Fu Lounge. 1238 Fourth St, 415.460.9883, yetwahsanrafael.com
SAUSALITO ANGELINO RESTAURANT Italian Father-andson chefs Pasquale and Alfredo Ancona offer handmade pastas and seasonal antipasti at this authentic Italian restaurant, which has been serving food from the Campania region for the past 24 years. 621 Bridgeway, 415.331.5225, angelinorestaurant.com
CIBO Cafe Husband-and-wife team Alfredo and Tera Ancona offer a menu filled with tarts, croissants, cookies, paninis and soups. Every dish is made from scratch with local and seasonal products. And now Marinites no longer have to drive over the bridge to get famous Blue Bottle coffee. Or opt for homemade organic dark hot chocolate. Located in the historic brick building at
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WHIPPER SNAPPER RESTAURANT California Owner and chef Bill Higgins serves reasonably priced and delicious tapas. Save room for delicious fish tacos and yummy chocolate bread pudding. On Sundays they offer $3 glasses of sangria. 1613 Fourth St, 415.256.1818, whipsnap.biz
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FENG NIAN Chinese Busy at lunch and dinner, this spacious hangout has been a popular spot for wonton soup, potstickers and daily specials for nearly two decades. For an indulgent treat order the Szechwan crispy calamari or honey-glazed walnut prawn. Free delivery. 2650 Bridgeway, 415.331.5300, fengnian.com
FISH Seafood It is all about the fresh fish here. You can dine at one of the picnic tables or purchase fresh fish to cook at home. Casual and bring cash (and lots of it!). 350 Harbor Dr, 415.331.3474, 331fish.com
HORIZONS Seafood/American There isn’t a better place for waterfront deck dining with stunning views of Angel Island, Alcatraz and the San Francisco skyline. Horizons is a favorite with locals and visitors. Enjoy lunch, dinner and brunch daily, featuring fresh seafood, salads, sandwiches, pasta and steak. Deck dining, valet parking and docking facilities available. A full bar serves draft beers and specialty cocktails and has an extensive wine selection. 558 Bridgeway,
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415.331.3232, horizonssausalito.com
MURRAY CIRCLE American Enjoy the sun on the deck of this Cavallo Point restaurant. Locals say they come back for the fresh seasonal ingredients like wild sturgeon and Wolfe Ranch quail that chef Joseph Humphrey cooks up. 601 Murray Circle, 415.339.4750, cavallopoint.com
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PARADISE BAY American Enjoy the sun or dine under the stars at this waterfront restaurant. Patrons’ favorites are the organic beef sandwiches and fresh Maine lobster clubs. 1200 Bridgeway, 415.331.3226, paradisebaysausalito.com
PICCOLO TEATRO Italian Translating into “Little Theater” in Italian, Piccolo Teatro used to be a theater before it became the exquisite restaurant it is today. Executive Chef Travis Flood spends weeks mastering each dish. Customers seem unanimous in finding the food quality, service, and ambience phenomenal. 739 Bridgeway,
MILANO Italian Located in the Cove Shopping Center, this family-owned neighborhood spot is known for its pasta and friendly service. A good place to take the kids—or catering option for your next birthday party. 1 Blackfield Dr, 415.388.9100 SAM’S ANCHOR CAFE American Everyone knows Sam’s deck is the prime spot for brunch on a lazy sunny Sunday, and its bar is the town’s historic watering hole, but Sam’s is also a great place for lunch or dinner. Enjoy trans-fat-free calamari, fresh fish, seasonal salads and pastas. 27 Main St, 415.435.4527, samscafe.com
415.332.0739, piccoloteatrodisausalito.com
POGGIO Italian A great place to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a night out. Executive chef Peter McNee cooks up delicious Northern Italian cuisine using fresh and local ingredients, including produce from the nearby Poggio chef garden. 777 Bridgeway, 415.332.7771, poggiotratoria.com
SERVINO RISTORANTE Italian With people like Warren Buffett and Bill Gates raving about his pizza, Angelo Servino is doing something right. Some people come for the spacious and popular bar; some people come for the great food and friendly service; the titans of industry, it seems, opt for the pepperoni. Spacious bar, and weekend music is also a big draw. 9 Main St, 415.435.2676, servino.com
SPINNAKER Seafood Chef Phil Collins excels at preparing seafood, and it shows in the beautiful plate presentations. Set right on the water, this romantic spot is great for an evening occasion. 100 Spinnaker Dr, 415.332.1500, thespinnaker.com
SUSHI RAN Japanese Fresh, innovative small plates are just big enough to share, the traditional sushi is melt-in-your-mouth good and the wine, cocktail and sake lists keep the pickiest barfly well satisfied. Even the prices don’t deter the herd of sushi enthusiasts, who line up nightly to partake; reservations required in main room. 107 Caledonia St, 415.332.3620, sushiran.com
TOMMY’S WOK Chinese Scrupulously fresh ingredients and free-range chicken make the yellow coconut milk curry here divine. Nice atmosphere and good takeout. 3001 Bridgeway,
Bridgeway, 415.332.1454, winships.com
SAND DOLLAR American Originally built from three barges in Tiburon in 1921, the Sand Dollar Restaurant was floated to Stinson that same year and still exists today. Enjoy live music along with local barbecued oysters and New England clam chowder. Sunny deck is great in the afternoon (Stinson). 3458 Shoreline Hwy, 415.868.0434, stinsonbeachrestaurant.com
STATION HOUSE CAFE American Fresh local homegrown foods, served as available, are showcased on the chef’s menu. Stop in on weekends for the live music and enticing wine and beer lists. 11180 State Route One, 415.663.1515,
SURFERS GRILL American The view doesn’t get better than this—nor does the surf salad. Built right out on Stinson Beach, this casual lunch spot offers up tasty fresh organic salads alongside corn dogs, burgers and fries. Stinson Beach Park, Hwy 1, 415.868.1777, surfersgrill.com
thelodgeattiburon.com
SAN FRANCISCO WEST MARIN BLUE HERON INN Local A daily changing chalkboard menu features the fresh seasonal bounty of nearby organic farms. An outstanding staff creates a friendly and comfortable atmosphere, right by the wharf. 11 Wharf Rd, 415.868.1102
NICK’S COVE American This collaboration of famed restaurateurs Pat Kuleto and Mark Franz has attracted visitors (and accolades) nationwide. Large windows open the 130-seat eatery to the picturesque Tomales Bay and Hog Island. Menu consists of the freshest available local seafood, oysters and bounty from nearby West Marin farms including Bodega Bay Dungeness crab cake and Tomales Bay clam chowder (Marshall). 23240
TIBURON
Hwy 1, 415.663.1033, nickscove.com
CAPRICE California Book the private party room for large groups or just relax in what one Yelp reviewer called, “the perfect romantic dinner spot.” Midweek take advantage of the restaurant’s well-priced three-course dinners for less than $25. 2000 Paradise Dr, 415.435.3400,
OLEMA INN California One of the most charming settings around, this inn and restaurant is a great destination lunch spot for a Sunday drive, or dinner every night. The menu includes imaginative combinations using regional and organic greens while the bar features a full wine list (Olema). 10000 Sir Francis Drake Blvd,
thecaprice.com
415.663.1536, thepineconediner.com
stationhousecafe.com
TIBURON GRILL California The atmosphere here is truly enchanting with two outdoor patios, two indoor fireplaces, and candlelit tables during the evening. No item is more than $20, including the steak, with entrées falling in the $14 to $18 range. Happy hour is Monday through Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. 1651 Tiburon Blvd, 415.435.5996,
415.332.5818, tommyswok.com
WINSHIPS RESTAURANT American The morethan-four-decades-old nautical-themed restaurant is luring locals and tourists with hearty breakfasts and lunch options like tender fried calamari, clam strips, mussels and a giant prawn cocktail. 670
PINE CONE DINER American Just off the main road, Joannie Kwit has recreated the ultimate neighborhood diner. Vintage china and homemade curtains complement the eclectic but homey menu featuring local fare. A favorite for locals as well as tourists, bicyclists and motorcyclists (Point Reyes Station). 60 Fourth St,
415.663.9559, theolemainn.com
AME Pan-Asian Head to the St. Regis Hotel for a Pan-Asian dining experience. A sashimi bar, 300plus wine list, and flawless execution of dishes like the grilled lamb loin chops and black cod. 689 Mission St, 415.284.4040, amerestaurant.com
CANTEEN Cali/French It’s not easy to get a seat in this nationally noted California-French restaurant, partly because of its reputation and partly because there aren’t many. Ever since the former Rubicon chef Dennis Leary turned a run-down downtown coffee shop into one of the best spots in the city, people have been lining up to sample the goods. 817 Sutter St, 415.928.8870, sfcanteen.com
CLIFF HOUSE California Part of the historic Sutro Landscape District, the Cliff House has both a casual bistro dining experience on the main level and the elegant Sutro at the Cliff House on the lower level. Don’t miss the Sunday buffet brunch. 1090 Point Lobos, 415.386.3330, cliffhouse.com
HARRIS’ RESTAURANT Steak House A San Francisco institution for nearly a century. Wine Spectator ranked Harris’ as one of the nation’s top ten steak houses. 2100 Van Ness Ave,
GUAYMAS Mexican Situated right on the waterfront. The touch-it-you’re-so-close city views and outdoor seating make it a great place to bring visitors on a warm summer night. Happy hour is 5 to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Menu includes specialties like puerco macho—pork loin chop with grilled plantain, topped with an ancho chile, garlic and onion sauce. 5 Main St,
PARKSIDE CAFE American Folks know it as the ultimate breakfast spot (think Guatemalan scramble or waffle with blood orange–strawberry compote and whipped cream, alfresco) but lunch and dinners are great too. Choose from an array of organic local produce and artisan meats and wild seafood. (Stinson). 43 Arenal Ave, 415.868.1272,
PERBACCO Italian The seasonal Italian menu focuses on the northern Piemontese region, featuring handcrafted charcuterie, homemade pastas and regional dishes such as quail with persimmon and apple salad. 230 California St,
415.435.6300, guaymasrestaurant.com
parksidecafe.com
415.955.0663, perbaccosf.com
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MARIN NOVEMBER 2010
415.673.1888, harrisrestaurant.com
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What do you love most about your job? The kids—there are over a thousand of them. They are so eager and enthusiastic. From kindergartners to high school seniors, ours is a
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What do you do for fun outside of your job?
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Betty Jaggs Morris Acacia Custom Framing & Gallery, San Rafael “Acacia has strived to be one of Marin’s most respected framing establishments in the same location for 45 years,” says owner Betty Jaggs Morris, “offering complete museum-quality treatment to every order such as shadow box framing, needlework, custom mirrors, etc.
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M I C R O C L I M ATE
TAMALPAIS VALLEY Minutes from the bridge and a world away BY DANIEL JEWET T
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PHOTOS TIM PORTER
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
I f t h e t r u e m e a s u r e o f a c o m m u n i t y is the quality of the
“We have very generous parents; it’s just unbelievable. They are willing
young people it raises and the way its citizens interact, then Tamalpais
to volunteer, drive on field trips and put their money where their mouth
Valley might be one the richest areas in Marin.
is,” she says. “They are willing to contribute whatever we need.”
“Pride in your school is such a great feeling,” says the popular prin-
In an area that is mostly residential, the top-ranked school, built in
cipal of Tamalpais Valley Elementary School, Gail Van Adelsberg. “The
1951, serves as a meeting place where parents can get together and dis-
kids here are proud and feel they can do anything.”
cuss the challenges and pleasures of raising children. “There is a wonder-
Van Adelsberg, known affectionately as “Mrs. Van” by students and
ful community feel; people want to meet each other and help where they
even some parents, moved to Marin to begin teaching at the school 10
can.” All of this makes teaching in Tam Valley a lot of fun. “This is my fa-
years ago, leaving behind jobs teaching at American schools in such ex-
vorite teaching job I’ve ever had,” Van Adelsberg says. “It’s dynamic, chal-
otic places as La Paz, Bolivia and Lima, Peru.
lenging and extremely rewarding—all in such a beautiful setting.”
The physical setting of the school with 492 students as well as the
Just minutes from the Golden Gate Bridge between Sausalito and Mill
commitment level of the parents and staff immediately impressed her.
Valley, this unincorporated area of Marin County has about 2,500 house-
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
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NOVEMBER 2010
115
holds, each with ample access to a
“It gives you a very tight mission compared to a town
wealth of bike paths, parks, trails,
council,” he says. “And people seem to like having local
Mount Tamalpais, even a creek.
government smaller and closer. If they have a problem or
Its residents are also within easy
suggestion the board is made up of their neighbors; they
striking distance of downtown
can just walk right over.”
Mill Valley, San Francisco and the
According to Bartschat, the fact that these services are
southern portion of West Marin.
handled by the district and not contracted out allows them
Through State Route One, which
to try new things or implement fresh ideas on the fly. He
runs right through Tam Valley, resi-
points to examples such as food waste collection, sewer line
dents can easily access the Golden
replacement, recycling programs and paper shredding and
Gate National Recreation Area,
medicine collection events as recent examples. He is also
Mount Tamalpais State Park and
proud of the contract post office station that opened recent-
the communities of Stinson Beach,
ly at DeLano’s IGA. “That came from someone in the com-
Muir Beach and Bolinas.
munity with a good idea,” he says.
But one of the community’s
But Bartschat admits that while sanitation and garbage
true treasures lies a little bit closer
are important, it is parks and recreation and the standout
to home.
Tam Valley Community Center that are the real attractions.
“I lived so close to the commu-
“We are re-creating kind of a 1950s feel,” he says of the
nity center and got exposed to lo-
center. “Lots of family events, barbecues, music and films.
cal government that way,” says Tam
We are really building a sense of community.”
Valley Community Services District
Patricia Scott Winslow, a Decker Bullock Sotheby’s agent
board president Steffen Bartschat,
with years of Bay Area experience, says it is just this sense
who has lived in the valley for 12
of community that is bringing young families from San
years. “I thought it would be nice
Francisco north when they’re looking for a new home.
to get involved and discover all the things that we could do.” Bartschat quickly discovered that there were indeed many
116
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“It is an easy commute, you can drive right out to the beach and you are surrounded by stunning open space,” the Mill Valley resident says. “People come from all over to live in or near Mill Valley.”
things to do and learned more
So far this year about 29 homes have sold in Tam
about the community services dis-
Valley to people looking to call the area home. Prices
trict, formed in the 1960s to han-
ranged from a low $370,000 for a 699-square-foot home
dle three main tasks for Tam Valley: sanitation, garbage
to $2.395 million on the high end for something quite
collection and parks and recreation. The district board is
a bit larger. On average prices are a little lower in Tam
composed of elected members and serves as kind of a city
Valley than in Mill Valley, with a median home price of just
council but with a limited focus.
over $1 million.
NOVEMBER 2010
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
David Pfeiffer and Jan Gregg
Contemporary Mediterranean Estate Tiburon The home is 7000 sq. ft. on two private acres bordering open space with breathtaking views of San Francisco and the Bay. There are five bedrooms, five full bathrooms and two-half baths. Also featured are a living room with 14 foot ceilings, two family rooms, wine cellar, pool and spa. IN ADDITION the luxurious theatre has Bose surround sound, tiered theatre seating and even a popcorn maker. To complete this magnificent estate is a private guest cottage with kitchen plus a four car garage. Call for more details on this special estate.
Exclusively Offered at $5.5 Million
David Pfeiffer 415.435.6111 DRE #00845851
Jan Gregg 415.435.1220
DRE #001111727
PacUnion.com dpfeiffer@pacunion.com • 60 Belvedere Drive, Mill Valley, CA 94941 • www.pfeiffergregg.com
®
528 Alta Way, Mill Valley • $1,199,000 528AltaWay.com This charming Mill Valley home, built in 2000, offers an abundance of elegance and style. Flooded with light and offering a feeling of volume and spaciousness, it features a formal living room accented by a fireplace and large picture windows looking out to a forest of trees. The adjacent dining room with French doors leading to a garden and patio provides the perfect spot for entertaining. A gourmet kitchen features top-of-the-line appliances, including a Swedish Asko dishwasher. Next to the kitchen you will find a family room with French doors leading to a yard for relaxation and play. The master suite retreat is the ideal place to unwind at the end of the day. Upstairs there are three additional bedrooms, a bath and a laundry room. A two-car attached garage and an excellent commute location make this one not to miss.
Karen Z. Hardesty 415.265.3344 kzhardesty@fhallen.com KarenZHardesty.com Committed to Extraordinary Service
®
Dramatic Contemporary Masterpiece • $6,850,000 3668Paradise.com As you approach this stunning home down a wide, gentle stone stairway you can tell immediately that you are about to enter a work of art. The astounding views are apparent, before you even open the front door, through windows of glass that lead your eye from the front to the rear of this amazing home. A night-lit sports court with adjacent patio is the perfect spot to hang out around a fire and play, day and night. Gentle paths meander through the property providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. An interior exercise room adds to the resort feel. The 1.0055 acre (per county records) is the perfect setting for this gem of 5,924 square feet (per architect). The owners have lovingly tended and developed the lot since they bought the house in 1988. All in all, the experience of this property is unique and sensual. A feast in every sense of the word.
Karen Z. Hardesty 415.265.3344 kzhardesty@fhallen.com KarenZHardesty.com Committed to Extraordinary Service
Chelsea E. Hardesty 415.300.6881 chardesty@fhallen.com ChelseaEHardesty.com Redefining Service in Real Estate
®
3 East Road, Ross • $2,195,000 A 2005 remodel makes this nearly new 3BR/2BA ultra-charming home done to perfection. Great location close to school & hiking.
48 Walnut, Larkspur • Price upon request Beautiful 2BR cottage plus detached artist studio in the heart of Larkspur. Wonderful sunny gardens, private & close to downtown.
Judy Smith 415.215.6789 jsmith@fhallen.com
Mill Valley • $1,695,000 1StrawberryLanding.com Beautiful 3BR/2BA waterfront home on Richardson Bay with 42 ft. 24-hour deep-water dock & views of San Francisco and Tiburon.
Judy LeMarr 415.793.5030 jlemarr@fhallen.com MarinDreamHome.com
San Rafael • $749,000 26LaurelGlen.com Move right into this stylish home that feels like new. This 4BR/2.5BA contemporary home w/ master retreat has been beautifully updated.
®
Belvedere • $6,250,000 12CrestRoad.com This world-class site features a stunning mid-century modern home of timeless beauty. Go through the spacious gallery entryway to a living room of floor-toceiling glass with breathtaking views of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge and Richardson Bay. Outside is an expansive lawn, mature gardens, and a pool with large patio areas. This spacious home with five bedrooms, three and one-half baths has wonderful flow for indoor/outdoor living and entertaining. One could never tire of watching the shipping and yachting activity during the day and the transition to sunset and sparkling night lights. On a private street; three-car garage.
Bill Smith 415.435.4456 Bill@WilliamJSmith.com WilliamJSmith.com Lic #:01229913
Tiburon • $2,395,000 40DelMar.com This spacious, newly constructed 4 bedroom, 3 bath single-level home was thoughtfully designed and built within the last year with a meticulous eye for quality and taste. Constructed with astute attention to detail and appointed with highend finishes throughout, this avant-garde sanctuary will please even the most discerning buyer. Its grand and flowing great room is perfect for entertaining and opens onto large level lawns and hardwood decks. Enjoy all-day sun in this south facing home with views of the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito and Richardson Bay all framed in walls of glass.
GUARANTEE MORTGAGE CORP.
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750 LINDARO ST., SUITE 350 SAN RAFAEL, CA 94901 P: 415.925.8080 • F: 415.461.4009 www.gmwest.com REAL ESTATE BROKER, CA DEPT. OF REAL ESTATE LICENSE #01370741 CORP NMLS #2527
Magnificent Craftsman-Style Estate ~ 147 Lagunitas Road, Ross
www.147Lagunitas.com A gated entry opens to a park-like setting and long circular drive leading to a wide, brick walkway that guides one to the stately portico of a of an exquisitely maintained home. Level 1.22 acres of lush vegetation, rolling lawns and landscaped gardens provide a welcoming place to entertain. Walking distance to the distinguished Ross School. ♦ Five bedrooms ♦ Four bathrooms ♦ Powder room ♦ Grand living room ♦ Dining room
that opens to a solarium ♦ Library ♦ Kitchen/family room combination ♦ Office ♦ Second family room ♦ 40’ Infinity-edge pool ♦ Gym in auxiliary building ♦ Laundry ♦ Mudroom ♦ Basement ♦ Two-car carport.
Offered at $6,875,000
Mediterranean Residence ~ One Southwood Avenue, Ross
www.OneSouthwood.com Beautifully maintained home with all the original detail preserved.. The low-pitched tile roof, thick stucco walls, high ceilings, decorative wrought iron, sculpted Italian travertine fireplace, and generous use of mahogany are in keeping with its architectural integrity. Built and owned by the same family since 1927. ♦ Four Bedrooms on one level ♦ Two and one half Baths ♦ Formal Dining Room
with mullioned picture windows and arched door ♦ Library/Study ♦ Sunny, level lot ♦ Circular drive and a flagstone patio surrounded by a garden & fruit trees ♦ Twocar Detached Garage ♦ Short walking distance to the Ross Elementary School, Ross Commons, and The Branson School. Offered at $2,650,000
mayne & company R E A L
E S T A T E
Linda Furst Mayne, Broker • DRE 00843231
415.847.1346 MOBILE • mayneco@comcast.net
W H E R E D O Y O U WA N T T O L I V E ?
ope n.apr.com
APR COUNTIES | Santa Clara | San Mateo | San Francisco | Marin | Sonoma | Alameda | Contra Costa | Monterey | Santa Cruz
21 Sunshine Avenue, Sausalito
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S A N F R A N C I S C O | M A R I N | P E N I N S U L A | E A S T B AY
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Your Donation Center for Food Bank and Ritter Center Coat Drive
Nobody can do Everything, but Everyone can do Something Did You Know? I I
More than 16% of Marin’s children live in poverty and more than 35% of households live below the basic self sufficiency income for a family of three (one parent and two children). Food pantries have seen increases as high as 70% in the number of people in need of food compared to the same month the year before.
Now through December 31st, all Alain Pinel Realtors of Marin County will be accepting donations of non-perishable food, as well as new or gently-used coats and other clothing items in support of the Marin Community Food Bank, The Ritter Center and our neighbors in need this holiday season. Donations can be made during business hours at any of our APR Marin County offices in Corte Madera, Ross and Novato, or at any of our Sunday Open Houses across the county. For more information about this program, please call 415.755.1111 or email our Marin office manager, Steve Dickason at sdickason@apr.com.
Toni AbruzzoRamirez 415.827.8280 tabruzzo@apr.com
30 Fairway Drive, San Rafael www.30FairwayDrive.com
Tranquility: quality or state of being tranquil; calmness; peacefulness; quiet; serenity. If I were to choose one word to describe this property it would be “Tranquility.” Upon arriving at the home, draping bougainvillea, a wrought-iron balcony and brick pathway welcome you. An artistic front portal opens to unveil a spacious great room with high ceilings and just beyond this room a Zen water sculpture gurgles and sets the tone for this magical, four bedroom, four plus bath refuge. This home has been lovingly updated and the grounds have been meticulously tended to with love. A glimmering pool & spa, yoga/ meditation studio and working greenhouse complete the picture. Offered at $2,495,000 Square footage, acreage, and other information herein, has been received from one or more of a variety of different sources. Such information has not been verified by Alain Pinel Realtors. If important to buyers, buyers should conduct their own investigation.
SOUTHERN MARIN 415.569.1111
ROSS 415.755.1111
CENTRAL MARIN 415.755.1111
NOVATO 415.798.8111
TIBURON Coming Soon!
IN TODAY’S MARKET, being an expert realtor and market advisor is as much about understanding lifestyle as it is location. For almost a decade now, JimmyMarin has helped clients find the
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best of California living.
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Whether buying or selling throughout California, JimmyMarin and his team of “best in class” professionals will offer thoughtful, personal attention throughout every stage of your transaction. To receive free statistical updates about recent transactions in your area, go to: www.JimmyMarin.com
375 REDWOOD AVENUE, CORTE MADERA
DRE#01352287
$2,200,000 Greenpoint, Novato $1,400,000 2HamptonLane.com
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Equestrian Dream Property $2,500,000 Greenpoint, Novato 373School.com www.595DeerCreek.com
Greenbrae $1,275,000 Waterfront home with Mt. Tam views
West Marin Sold for $3,150,000 On Walker Creek, 3 BD/4 BA, 667 acres
www.ExclusiveMarinHomes.com
Jennifer Tremblay 415.902.1726 j.tremblay@deckerbullocksir.com
Belvedere. Four bedroom, 2.5 bath property including a bedroom suite with separate entrance. Newly landscaped gardens, spacious outdoor decks and terraces for outdoor entertaining. This beautiful New England style property was recently remodeled with care and attention to detail. A truly unique home that brings together the feeling of owning more than just a house but a property with character and charm. www.9laurel.com $2,300,000
Tiburon. This world-class home site has plans set for a gracious three level property with approximately 6,000 sq. ft. 6 bedrooms, 6.5 baths, and panoramic SF Bay views. The proposed site includes approved plans, incorporating a spacious yard with swimming pool, large patios and 3 decks, 3 car garage, wine cellar, 2 elevators, and library. Call for more details on this exceptional opportunity to build your dream home. $2,700,000
Ross. Gorgeous gated estate on nearly one acre designed by Hans Glass. Stately 3-level home, 5,400 sq. ft., 6 bedrooms, 6.5 baths with hardwood floors, designer kitchen, formal dining, wood panel library, wine cellar, & gorgeous Georgian style terraces. This landscaped property has a level lawn, luxurious child's playhouse & flagstone patios all framed by elegant stone walls brought in from Les Pierres in Sonoma. www.96LaurelGrove.com $5,495,000
Opening Doors to Marin's Finest Homes Kimberly A. Hansen 415.342.8281 k.airey@deckerbullocksir.com
Viviane Gulick 415.847.8216 v.gulick@deckerbullocksir.com
Luxury Estates and Properties
Your source for luxury listings and exclusive properties privately offered. www.worldclassproperties.com
This spectacular lower Kentfield property offers 1.25 acres located on a prime bi-level lot in the lower Woodlands. www.21Turnagain.com
Appx. 4 acres, pool, vista views from every window. 4 BD, 4 full & 1 half baths, appx. 4,130 sf. 159WestOakKnoll.com
$1,525,000
$2,475,000
Beautiful, serene, secluded & private estate on .79± acres w/ sparking pool, spacious rooms, & dramatic views. 3 BD, 3 BA. www.407FairhillsDrive.com
Restored Victorian, 3,000± sf, 4 BD, 2 full/2 half BA, on a street-to-street hillside lot with Bay views. www.450BellaVistaAve.com
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SAN ANSELMO $2,295,000
PR I N CE ew R ly ED St U ag CE ed D
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KENTFIELD $3,125,000
I specialize in Exclusive Luxury Properties not listed on the Multiple Listing Service and that are discreetly offered for sale. Detailed property descriptions, market information, and featured listings may be viewed at www.worldclassproperties.com.
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234 South Ridgewood Buyer Representation
NICASIO $4,250,000
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KENTFIELD $3,100,000
201 Lagunitas Buyer Representation
Private, sits in its own sunny valley, 20 acres, tennis court, pool, jacuzzi, www.5200LucasValley.com
Anna K. Pennington-Boucher Luxury Home Specialist
415.860.1399 a.boucher@deckerbullocksir.com www.worldclassproper ties.com
SO Sunny, bright, Bay & GG views, approx. 1 acre, 2 master suites, 4 bd, 3.5 ba… $2,295,000
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New Englnd-style lux w/ timbr frame constr, SF Bay vws, ±1 ac, 4 bd, 4.5 ba... $3,295,000
Stun renov. Eleg indr-outdr lvng, pool, spa. 4 bd, 3.5 ba + 1 bd, 1 ba pool house… $4,475,000
SO .6 ac, west-side develop potential w/ views Tam/GGB/SF. 3bd, 2ba… $2,195,000
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Spac, sunny, 3500± sf contemp, Mt Tam vw, beaut ktchn, pool, spa, 4bd, 3.5 ba… $1,995,000
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Striking, southwest-inspired, SF Bay vws, saltwtr pool, spa, 4/5 bd, 3.5 ba… $2,995,000
W.Shore watrfrnt, ±4000sf, GGB/Tam vws, dock, 4 bd, 4.5 ba… $2,995,000
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Remodl ±3613sf Glenwd hm, ±1.329 ac, Bay vws, decks, pool, 3 bd, 3 ba… $1,750,000
BILL BULLOCK (415) 384-4000
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Represented Buyer. 3418± sf contemporary w/ lagoon vws. 5 bd, 4.5 ba… $2,499,000
SO Charming vintage hm w/ GGB vws, remod kit, beaut master, lvl lawn, 3 bd, 4 ba… $1,650,000
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Gated, sunny .5± ac w/ GGB/SF skyline/Ring Mtn vws, lg mstr, spa, sauna, 3 bd, 4.5 ba… $2,475,000
LYDIA SARKISSIAN (415) 517-7720
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4,000+ sf on Lagoon wtrfrnt, gorg remodl, wndrfl indr-outdr lvng, 5 bd, 4 ba… $4,150,000
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Brthtking vws span SF/4 bridges, eleg contemp, circ glazed galleria, 4 bd, 3.5 ba… $3,950,000
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Represented Buyer. 667 ac ranch bordering Walker Creek. 3 bd, 4 ba… $3,499,000
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Quiet, priv & lvl 1 ac(-), top-of-the-Woodlands, pool, contemp, 5 bd, 3.5 ba… $3,495,000
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www.globalestates.com 4800± sf, 0.5+ ac. GGB/SF vws, decks, 5 bd + sep 1 bd au pair, 5.5 ba… $3,450,000
6.8 ac compnd, deeded & tideland wtrfrnt, tennis, pool, decks, 5 bd, 5 ba... $7,485,000
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16th-cent. Jap. arch. + 21st-cent. amen, Bay/grden vws, shoji screens, 5 bd, 5 ba… $7,900,000
Stun SF/GGB vws. Over 10,000 sf, 5-rm mstr, pool. 5bd, 7 full & 2 half ba + 1bd/1ba apt… $24,950,000
7+ ac, beaut grnds & tidelands, pool, dock, boat garage, sep gst hse, 4 bd, 5.5 ba… $7,795,000
Italianate w/ GGB/SF skyline vws, totally remod w/ pier, float dock & boat lift, 4 en-suite bd… $24,000,000
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3 Wtrfrnt lots, west side, Mt Tam thru SF skyline vws... $4,500,000 - $5,000,000
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Westrn-most wtrfrnt promontry w/ SF skyline/GGB vws. 5bd/4ba hse + 1bd/1ba apt… $27,500,000
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New construction, contemp, 5700± sf, 1.2± ac, 5 ensuite bd, 5 full & 2 half ba… $5,695,000
$4.75M $4.5M
±1 ac, mostly lvl, w/ Mt Tam, GGB & SF vws, boat hse/dock, rare potential… $11,950,000
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New int design, grt rm w/ tall windows & skylight, GGB to Mt Tam vws, 4 bd, 4 ba… $5,800,000
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World-clss wtrfrnt on ±1.2 ac, ±8,000sf, GGB & SF skyline vws… $28,850,000
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6000± sf contemp, ±1.2 ac, salt water pool/spa, walls of glass, Bay vws. 5 bd, 5 ba… $7,485,000
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Ult mdrn hm, 6,000±sf, SF skyline/GGB/Tam vws. 5 bd (4 en-suite), 4 full/3 half ba… $12,995,000
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Stun contemp, 4850 sf, GGB vw, 4 ensuite bd including huge master wing, 4.5 ba… $7,500,000
BILL BULLOCK (415) 384-4000
Barry Levinson estate. ±10,000 sf, ±2 level ac, pool, 7 bd, 8 full/2 half ba… $14,850,000
LYDIA SARKISSIAN (415) 517-7720
www.globalestates.com Rare vac lot – Woodlands. Mostly lvl 2.8 ac, gated, vw, apprvd plans… $4,500,000
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This unique, 3,000± sq. ft., gated, one-story residence sits next to open space on approximately 1 acre of beautifully landscaped grounds with a sweeping panoramic view of San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge, Sausalito, and Mt. Tamalpais. The exterior of the house is Port Orford cedar – a special vertical-grain cut of white cedar. There is a covered carport, circular driveway and four distinct, but connected, outside entertaining areas including a pool. The home has simplicity, grace, charm, and California-styled elegance with a floor plan that is exceedingly livable and ideal for entertaining. The house has custom features throughout and was designed for privacy and to take advantage of the setting and spectacular views from all the rooms. Building materials emphasized the use of the finest woods and extensive use of glass. All rooms have floor-to-ceiling French doors that open to vistas and outdoor private areas. The total effect is privacy and a celebration of nature. Four bedrooms, three baths…
BILL BULLOCK (415) 384-4000
www.globalestates.com
$7,500,000
LYDIA SARKISSIAN (415) 517-7720
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Stunning, newly completed contemporary with riveting views spanning the San Francisco skyline, bay and Golden Gate Bridge. Gated, level lawns, private terraces, indoor/outdoor living, smart and green home integration, whole-home automation. Formal living and dining rooms and wonderful kitchen designed for the serious home chef, with Wolf, Miele, Abbaka, Sub-Zero and Franke fixtures, large center isle with breakfast bar, and adjacent family area with fireplace, media center, temp controlled 800-bottle wine room
$7,500,000
and view-side terrace. Three bedrooms, two and one-half baths…
BILL BULLOCK (415) 384-4000
www.globalestates.com
LYDIA SARKISSIAN (415) 517-7720
LO O K I N G BACK
[CIRCA 1929]
THE TOLL IN PANTOLL BY JIM WOOD
THROUGHOUT THE 1920s, Mount Tamalpais was alive with the sound
grading was under way on the Panoramic Highway from what is
of road graders—and most of the roads graded still exist. Early in the
now Mill Valley’s Four Corners all the way to Stinson Beach. “It was
decade, the Fairfax to Bolinas Road, which was a dirt stagecoach
Marin’s most controversial road ever,” says Marin historian Barry
path from the 1870s, was finally paved. Then in 1923, Ridgecrest
Spitz. “People were sure it would lead to homes being built along its
Boulevard, later to be advertised as “California’s Most Scenic Drive,”
route.” Instead, what resulted was a citizens’ movement leading to
was pushed through from the Fairfax-Bolinas Road 14 miles to the
the creation of Mount Tamalpais State Park. Then in 1929, a two-mile
east peak of Mount Tamalpais. And for years, it was a toll road with
“spur” connecting Panoramic Highway to Ridgecrest Boulevard (still a
a collection booth where the two roadways intersected. According to
toll road) was completed, thus necessitating a second tollbooth. This
Mount Tamalpais, A History by Lincoln Fairley, the toll was “one dollar
one was located on Panoramic Highway, at the turnoff to Rock Spring
for a car with two occupants, twenty-five cents for each additional
where there is now a ranger station, a parking lot and numerous
occupant and seventy-five cents for a motorcycle.” Then in 1927,
popular trailheads—all going by the name of … Pantoll.
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MARIN
NOVEMBER 2010
MARINMAGAZINE.COM
PHOTO COURTESY OF ANNE T. KENT CALIFORNIA ROOM
Long before FasTrak, Marin’s Panoramic Highway had a tollbooth
Luxury Estates and Properties ST LI EW N The former estate of Jerry Garcia. Stunning, 7000+ sf Mediterranean style home with 300-degree views on 11 acres. www.55ElMirador.com
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Gated 8,000 sq.ft. custom home set on 2± acres with seasonal creek, 5 bedrooms, 6 baths, separate 1BD/1BA guest cottage, pool & sapa on landscaped courtyard. www.1191SimmonsLane.com
KENTFIELD
$5,750,000
Exquisite European Style Villa. Extensively upgraded from new steel I-beam foundation to the 100-year barrel tile roof. Features a stunning outdoor dining pavilion. www.30Toussin.com
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Your source for luxury listings and exclusive properties privately offered for sale.
NOVATO
$4,995,000
Elegant, contemporary Craftsman built in 2009, less than one year old. Gated on 87 acres (60 flat acres)! Great outdoor living with pool, pool house & outdoor kitchen. www.201SanAntonio.com.
I specialize in Exclusive Luxury Properties not listed on the Multiple Listing Service and that are discreetly offered for sale. Detailed property descriptions, market information, and featured listings may be viewed at www.worldclassproperties.com.
SOLD 5200 Lucas Valley Rd, Nicasio 201 Lagunitas, Ross 234 S. Ridgewood, Kentfield 223 Evergreen, Kentfield 40 Sunny Oaks, San Rafael 11 Leona, San Rafael 22 Acacia, Larkspur
$4,250,000 $3,795,000 $3,100,000 $1,925,000 $1,800,000 $1,510,000 $1,140,000
Represented Seller Represented Buyer Represented Seller Represented Seller Represented Seller Represented Buyer Represented Buyer
Anna K. Pennington-Boucher Luxury Home Specialist
415.860.1399 a.boucher@deckerbullocksir.com www.worldclassproperties.com